Summer car care: Simple tips to beat the heat

Rising summer temperatures in many parts of the country can affect vehicle performance and increase the risk of mechanical issues. Prolonged exposure to heat can place additional load on components such as the engine, cooling system, battery and tyres.

Higher temperatures may also reduce the efficiency of a vehicle’s air-conditioning system, raise tyre pressure and accelerate wear in some mechanical and electrical parts. In many cases, seasonal maintenance is overlooked until a problem occurs, which can lead to breakdowns or repair costs.Heat and direct sunlight can also affect exterior paint, the dashboard, upholstery and other interior surfaces when a vehicle is parked outdoors for long periods.

Regular inspections and preventive maintenance become important during the summer months. Checking the cooling system, monitoring fluid levels, maintaining correct tyre pressure and ensuring the air-conditioning system is functioning properly can help reduce the chances of heat-related issues.In this article, let’s take a look at summer car care tips you should follow to maintain vehicle performance in hotter conditions. Avoid parking out in the sun.Parking in shaded or covered areas can help limit heat buildup inside the vehicle.

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can raise cabin temperatures and affect interior components such as the dashboard, upholstery and plastic trims. Using windshield sunshades can also help reduce heat inside the cabin and make the vehicle more comfortable to enter after being parked in the sun. Check coolant levels and radiator.Engine overheating is a common issue during summer as rising temperatures place additional load on the cooling system.

Coolant helps regulate engine temperature and prevents overheating. Car owners should ensure the coolant level remains within the recommended range and inspect the radiator, coolant reservoir and hoses for leaks, cracks or wear. A frequent drop in coolant level may indicate a leak that requires attention.

The radiator helps regulate engine temperature, a function that becomes more important during the summer.

Dust, debris and ageing coolant can reduce radiator efficiency and affect the performance of the cooling system over time. With higher temperatures, this may increase the likelihood of engine overheating, particularly during long drives or while driving in heavy traffic.Service the radiator and change the AC filter.The air-conditioning system becomes important during summer, especially during long drives or in traffic.

Reduced cooling may be caused by low refrigerant levels, a clogged cabin air filter or other issues. Inspecting the AC system before temperatures rise can help maintain performance. Cleaning or replacing the cabin air filter may also improve airflow and cooling efficiency.Inspect the car battery.While battery problems are often associated with winter, high temperatures can also affect battery performance.

Heat can accelerate chemical reactions within the battery and reduce its lifespan over time. Car owners should check battery terminals for corrosion and ensure connections are secure. If the battery is several years old, it is advisable to have it tested before the peak summer period. Keep checking tyre pressure.High temperatures can cause the air inside tyres to expand, which may increase tyre pressure beyond the recommended level.

This can lead to uneven tyre wear and reduced grip. Drivers should check tyre pressure regularly, particularly before long trips, and maintain the levels specified by the manufacturer. Tyres should also be inspected for cuts, cracks and uneven wear. The temperature of road surfaces, too, will be increased due to black asphalt.

The heat from the road, along with high ambient temperatures, can place additional stress on tyres during driving. If tyres are worn, cracked or inflated beyond the recommended pressure, the risk of a tyre burst may increase, especially during long highway journeys.