As the summer months approach, many motorists are gearing up for road trips and visits to friends and family. However, the warmer weather can pose specific challenges for your vehicle. Vytas Palovis, VP of Growth at car parts marketplace Ovoko, shares essential summer car maintenance tips to keep your vehicle in top condition.
1. Monitor Engine Coolant Levels
The risk of your car overheating increases in the summer, making it crucial to check your engine coolant. Over time, debris can turn the coolant brown or muddy, and it can become more acidic, potentially causing corrosion. Palovis advises draining and replacing the engine coolant every 30,000 miles or as recommended in your vehicle’s manual.
If your coolant level is low, top it up with the recommended type, but ensure the engine is completely cooled before you do so to avoid exposure to hot pressurised coolant. Persistent low coolant levels may indicate a leak, necessitating a visit to the mechanic.
2. Inspect Your Tyres
Warmer temperatures can raise tyre pressure, increasing the risk of blowouts. Tyre pressure should be maintained within the manufacturer’s recommended range, typically 30-35 PSI for most passenger cars. Regular checks can prevent flat tyres and improve fuel efficiency.
Additionally, inspect tyres for cracks, bulges, and noises while driving. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6 millimetres. A 20p coin can be used to check this – if the outer band of the coin is visible when inserted into the tread, the tyre needs replacing.
3. Check Your Brakes
Post-winter brake checks are essential as summer heat can affect brake performance. Be attentive to poor stopping, squealing, growling noises, or any pulling to one side while driving. Addressing these issues promptly can ensure your safety.
4. Ensure Air Conditioning Efficiency
Functional air conditioning is vital for comfort during summer drives. Test your AC system before the peak of summer heat. If it’s not cooling effectively or emitting hot air, it may require a refrigerant top-up or re-gassing. This can be done using a specialist kit or at a professional garage.
5. Windscreen and Wiper Maintenance
Keeping your windscreen clear is essential, especially with increased pollen, sap, and dust during summer. Ensure your water reservoir is full and check the condition of your wiper blades. The heat can cause rubber blades to deteriorate, reducing their effectiveness.
6. Park in the Shade
Where possible, park your vehicle in the shade to keep the interior cool and protect the paintwork from sun damage. If shade is not available, use window shades to block out UV rays and minimise heat build-up.
7. Keep Your Car Clean
Regular cleaning is crucial year-round. In summer, melting food like chocolate or sticky sweets can damage your car’s interior. Keeping your vehicle clean can prevent such issues and maintain its overall condition.
Palovis emphasises that following these tips can help ensure your car remains reliable and safe during the summer months. “The stark difference in weather conditions and temperature can greatly impact the performance of your car, especially the coolant level and brakes, so make sure that you are checking these regularly,” he advises. “This can not only save you from costly repairs but also from a potentially dangerous situation.”
While these maintenance tasks are critical during summer, they are also essential throughout the year. If uncertain about any preparations, consulting your car manual or speaking to a professional is always advisable.
By adhering to these expert tips, drivers can enjoy a smooth and trouble-free motoring experience this summer, ensuring their vehicle is well-prepared to handle the seasonal challenges.
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