Summer driving is one of life’s great pleasures. Just picture yourself now: top down, wind in your hair, shades on, music bumping and kissing the speed limit – just you and the road. Whatever your version of this is, it’s important to understand that taking a drive in summer isn’t all fun and games. The country is getting hotter by the year, with heatwaves becoming a new norm, and extreme temperatures in either direction can put your vehicle under all sorts of undue stress.
Of course, having a good car breakdown cover policy can help you out whatever the season, but you should still take steps to avoid damaging your vehicle. This article will offer some guidance on driving in summer to protect your car from the environment around it.
Summer vehicle maintenance and essential checks
“How do I make my summer drive safer?” Well it all starts with your first checks and maintenance tasks.
Tyre checks
Checking your tyres is one of the most important parts of prepping your vehicle for the summer roads. Before you start driving, you need to check that they’re inflated to the recommended pressure level. You also need to check the tread depth and side walls for cracks, bulges or other signs of damage. Under-inflated or worn-out tyres are much likely to give up on you in hot weather.
Checking your coolant levels
Engine coolant is a vital part of your car’s operation on the best of days. So when the temperatures increase significantly, it becomes especially important to check that there’s a sufficient supply in the vehicle. Make sure to give the coolant reservoir a check to ensure the fluid sits comfortably between the min and max level lines, while also looking for any signs of leaks or damage. If it needs a top up, make sure to use the right product for your car.
Other fluid checks
It’s also vital to check other fluids in your vehicle, such as:
- Engine oil
- Brake fluid
- Screen wash
Anything that increases lubrication and smoothness will help to offset overheating when you drive summer roads.
Battery checks
Cold weather is a known battery killer, however, summer driving can also take its toll. Hot fluid in a battery is susceptible to evaporating faster, meaning the battery might not last as long. Go and get the battery professionally checked and tested if you’re planning on taking a long trip in the sun.
Air conditioning maintenance
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are very real issues, so it’s important to make sure your air conditioning is working properly before you head out on any sort of substantial journey. This could mean getting a proper professional check and guaranteeing there’s plenty of refrigerant.
Smart summer driving habits
There are also plenty of things you can do to protect your car when it comes to actually hitting the roads.
Avoid overloading the car
The heavier your car is, the more strain you’re going to put on the engine, brakes and tyres, increasing the likelihood of a breakdown. Don’t drive around with a full boot or roof if you don’t have to!
Plan your journeys for efficiency
Avoiding congestion and stop-start traffic will help protect your car’s engine and cooling systems from the weather, so make sure to plan in advance.
Conscious parking
Try to park in the shade when you can. This will help to protect your car’s interior from getting too hot, keeping materials at a better temperature and your next drive more comfortable overall.
Taking breaks & drinking water
Don’t overextend yourself. Make sure to take plenty of breaks and drink plenty of water during hot weather drives.
Summer driving can be a real treat; you just have to be conscious of your vehicle and, of course, your body. Follow these tips and enjoy your ride!