Summer has landed, thanks to El Nino which is bringing high pressure to the UK – high pressure which results in these long hot sultry days and the ever-present risk of heatwave – and you are probably planning your summer getaway even as you read this piece… But if you are staying in the UK, perhaps travelling north to beautiful Newcastle Upon Tyne or seeking cooler temperatures in Scotland’s Highlands and lochs, you should still take steps to look after your car in summer. Here are some expert tips on how to do that.

Disclaimer: This post is a collaboration

Look to Your Tyres

Extreme temperatures can affect your tyre performance, as well as disrupting inflation levels and even affecting the integrity of the rubber, especially over long periods of time. Make sure you carry a spare tyre on long journeys to your holiday destinations, even if you have a tyre repair kit. Tyre repair kits are excellent tools, but they don’t always do the trick, especially if the tyre is very badly damaged or fails catastrophically. If your summer road trip means that you are using your caravan or trailer after a long break – perhaps, in storage over the winter, for example, do check those vehicles’ tyres for cracking, drying or other signs of damage. And if your tyres need to be replaced you can buy your new tyres in Stirling from Fife Autocentre at competitive prices.

Check Your Oil and Coolant

Both of these fluids help to keep the internal workings of your car lubricated and cool. Check your oil using the dipstick under the hood. Not only are you checking to make sure there is enough oil in the engine, but you are also checking its condition. Good oil should be clear and yellowish brown, not black and bitty. Regular servicing should make sure that both of these fluids are topped off and in good condition – and consider bringing your service time forward a little in order to have your car in great condition before you set off on the long drive north to Newcastle upon Tyne or further, onward to Scotland, as hot temperatures can affect their levels and their condition.

Keep an Eye on Your Battery

Everyone knows that batteries can struggle to work in the cold, but too much heat is also not ideal. High summer heat can cause your battery to overheat, speeding up chemical reactions inside the battery that can cause it to become overcharged, as well as drying out vital fluid such as the electrolyte (distilled water and sulphuric acid mix). Keep the battery topped up with appropriately distilled water, and, in general, aim to replace your battery every three to four years to avoid the worst of age-related battery issues.

Alternator Issues

The alternator works closely in line with the battery, converting chemical energy into electrical energy to power the lights, radio and other electronics in the car. This means that when the battery is having issues, the alternator is more likely to suffer from ‘knock-on’ issues. A problematic alternator is not an easy roadside fix (and nor is it a cheap one, with the belt usually needing to be replaced too), so it is best to avoid the whole issue by ensuring you have regular services and a careful check-up before attempting a long drive to your summer destination.

Check Your Belts

Speaking of belts, your car is full of belts leading from this device to that, many of them designed to direct the flow of air around the engine to keep it cool so it doesn’t overheat. Winter colds can dry and crack these belts, and long summer drives can highlight and worsen these issues, causing sudden breakdowns, usually at most inconvenient times.

Summer is here and your holiday destination beckons. Get your car into summer shape and ensure that you don’t waste a moment of your precious downtime!