Common Summer Car Problems To Plan for before you embark on your next trip in the heat.
Summer is well and truly upon us and many of us are trusting our cars to get us to and from all the summer fun we’re planning. Most people still rely on cars to get to work each day but over the summer, travel increases due to holidays.
Brits are going on more staycations than ever before. This is due to a number of factors. Travel disruptions, fare rises, Covid restrictions, cost of living increases and strikes to name a few. In 2022 there was a staycation demand growth of 73%. On average, Brits take 2.3 vacations a year and in 2023, the most popular staycation destination is the South West, then London and then Scotland in third place. Unfortunately, all the driving in the summer heat can take a toll on our cars. However, with air and rail travel increasingly inaccessible, the car is the only option.
Here are five common problems that happen to cars in the summer you should be aware of.
The engine can overheat
One of the most common problems that can occur during summer is overheating. The hot weather can cause your engine to work harder. If your cooling system isn’t functioning properly, your engine can overheat. In order to avoid the nightmare of a hot engine, make sure your coolant levels are topped up and your cooling system is working effectively before embarking on a long summer drive.
The heat can exacerbate problems with the battery
Despite people thinking it’s the winter that affects a battery the most, the heat of summer can also drain your car’s battery. This can cause it to fail when you least expect it. Your car’s battery has to work harder in the summer due to the hot temperatures. If your battery is old and not in good condition, it may struggle. To avoid any battery issues, regularly check the battery’s performance and age and consider replacing it if required.
Tyres can be adversely affected
Road trips are often part of summer adventures. However, hot weather can cause problems as it can expand the air inside the tyres, leading to tyre pressure fluctuations. This can also cause your tyre to blow out, which can be dangerous at high speeds. To avoid any accidents, check your tyre pressure regularly and avoid over inflating them. Additionally, check the tyres’ condition, including checking for punctures or wear and tear.
The air conditioning system can be overused
All this heat means blasting the air conditioning, but constant use can take a toll on your car’s system. The air conditioning system in your car is not designed to run continuously. Doing so puts a lot of strain on it, plus it makes your engine run harder.
To avoid any issues, make sure you are using the air conditioning sparingly when necessary. Even turning it off when not needed, to give it a rest. Avoid having the windows open and the air conditioning running at the same time. Choose one or the other to save strain on the engine.
Additionally, aim to get your air conditioning system serviced twice a year to ensure that it is functioning properly.
The fuel system can develop issues
Fuel is extremely volatile during the heat, and prolonged exposure can cause evaporation. This can cause problems like vapor lock. This is where air pockets form within the fuel lines and fuel fails to reach the engine. To avoid this, always ensure your fuel tank is at least half full and park your car in a shaded area when you can.
Keeping your car regulalry serviced and staying on top of maintenance is the key to avoiding most of these common summer car problems. Always ensure that your car’s systems are functioning properly. Check your tyre pressure and condition regularly, and keep an eye on fluids such as coolant and oil.
Don’t skip services. If you have any particular concerns, ask a qualified car mechanic to look into it before you go on holiday. Remember the simple tips too, like parking your car in the shade when you can. With some careful planning ahead and a good maintenance and service routine, you can avoid the most common summer car problems and enjoy a safe and fun summer on the road.
