Summer car maintenance

Summer is coming and it is advisable to have your trusted workshop check your vehicle to prepare it for the summer and the expected heat.

It is not winter with its bad weather, but vehicles should also be checked in readiness for the summer. You will be doing a lot of mileage, especially if you are going on holiday, or often commuting from your summer destination to work. In short, the car needs to be in good roadworthy condition, hence the importance of a good service at the workshop.

Bear in mind that in hot weather the car performs less well than in average temperatures.

First of all, it is advisable for the driver to know the condition of the vehicle in terms of the various levels (brake fluid, oil, coolant, windscreen washer fluid, battery charge…), tyre pressure, lights and braking system.

What to check on your car for the summer

First of all, the brakes: At high temperatures, the brake system (pads, discs, fluids, hydraulics, etc.) becomes much hotter and cooling becomes more difficult.

Use the brakes only when necessary, for example on long descents it is better to use the lower gears, and it is advisable to drive less aggressively.

Check the tyres: Tyres wear more quickly in the heat, and if they are also used with less pressure, the tread is used up more quickly, with the consequent risk of the tyre not being able to grip a very hot road surface or the possibility of a puncture. Therefore, the workshop will be vigilant to ensure that the journey can be made with the correct pressure.

On the other hand, if the tyre does not have the right tread and the tread is worn, it should be replaced. Safety is paramount.

Check the engine temperature: Check that the needle does not reach the red zone of the dashboard indicator, as the engine can burn out. The user should be advised to stop and let it cool down if this happens. In addition, if the engine overheats, the best thing to do is to turn on the heater to dissipate the heat from the engine. The driver should then take the car to the repair workshop to see where the heat is coming from.

Advice that workshops should give customers when summer arrives

Park in the shade: Exposing the vehicle to direct sunlight can cause the electronics and ignition system to malfunction, or the steering wheel or seatbelt metal to burn. If there is no shade, use the sunshades provided in the car. If the car is to be left outside for several days, it is best to cover it with a tarpaulin.

Always keep your car clean: A good wash protects the paintwork, but be careful not to leave it to dry in the sun, as this will age the materials. It is better to use products that attenuate UV rays, such as waxes for bodywork. And do not forget, if you are in a coastal area, to clean the undercarriage to remove the saltpetre that corrodes this part of the vehicle.

Repair minor dents: This will prevent further damage in the heat.

Air conditioning is a must: It must work properly as it is essential for safe and proper driving in high temperatures. Check that the A/C is working normally and that it has the necessary refrigerant gas.

Check the car before you set off. If you are going on a long journey, prepare the car properly and do not leave it until the last minute.

Drive carefully: The important thing is to get there

Have a good journey!

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