Following these straightforward tips will not only work to prevent problems from developing as the temperatures soar but will also help you spot small issues before they develop into major ones that are more difficult and expensive to fix.

1) Park in the Shade

The simplest way to protect your vehicle from the sun’s rays is to keep it in the shade as much as possible. Parking under cover whenever possible is crucial, as heat can quickly build up in a stationary vehicle without the cooling airflow of driving.

Cars parked in direct sunlight risk fading and cracking of the interior surfaces, and the heat can also cause minor cracks or chips in the bodywork to expand, risking corrosion when wetter weather arrives. But perhaps worst of all, parking in the sun can greatly speed up wear and tear on the belts, hoses, and other soft components under the hood, risking breakdowns that leave you stranded in the heat.

2) Keep Coolant Fluid Topped Up

Your vehicle’s cooling system is under more pressure than ever when the sun rides high, so it’s vital to keep the coolant reservoir topped up at all times. Also, check that there are no leakages around the coolant container’s cap or hose connectors and that no drips are left underneath the vehicle after parking.

3) Monitor the Tires

Hot weather can increase tire pressure by a surprising amount, which not only reduces grip but can also make minor faults deteriorate rapidly. Because of this, it’s sensible to step up your tire pressure monitoring, checking every couple of weeks to ensure the tires are still within a safe range.

Furthermore, tires will degrade more quickly the higher the mercury climbs, as the compound softens and it’s in contact with the hotter pavement. While you’re checking the pressure, also check for any signs of increasing wear, such as balding spots, blisters, or cracks.

4) Air Conditioning

Air conditioning might not be essential to the smooth running of your vehicle, but you won’t want to struggle with a faulty system if you’re stuck in an afternoon traffic jam. Watch out for warning signs such as strange noises coming from the vents, leaky fluids appearing around the unit, or any slowdown in cooling ability.

Have the unit checked at the first sign of trouble, as a failure of any component can cause lasting damage to the whole air conditioner system.

5) Battery Charge

The combination of high temperatures under the hood and a heavy load caused by constant air conditioning can drain a fading battery extremely quickly. To ensure you’re not left without juice on a hot summer day, test that the battery is properly holding a charge and that it has no visible signs of deterioration, such as bulging sides or corroded terminals.

6) Windshield Wipers and Blades

Lastly, dry and dusty conditions mean your windshield wipers will need to work at 100% to ensure good visibility, as even a small buildup of dirt on the glass can make it difficult to see in the sun’s glare. Check that the wipers are cleaning the windshield effectively, leaving no smears behind, and replace any blades that aren’t up to the task.

All these tips will help your vehicle cope with the toughest conditions that summer can bring. But for the greatest peace of mind, having your vehicle checked by an expert mechanic will help ensure your vehicle sees the summer through without breakdowns or expensive repairs. To book a service appointment and protect your vehicle’s summer health, please click the button below.