Summer is here: how to get your car ready for high temperatures

Summer has arrived and we usually take the car out more often than in winter. We feel like going out more, and on weekends we take advantage of the time to head to the beach or to any other place we want to visit on very hot days. In addition, holiday season arrives and many people choose the car as their means of transport to reach their holiday destination. So you need to check the car thoroughly and get it ready so that it can cope with high temperatures, long journeys, and ensure that all the many trips of the summer are made safely.

Before starting the journey, or as soon as the heat begins, the key points of the engine must be checked. Among them, the oil levels, brake fluid, power steering fluid, coolant, and also the windscreen washer fluid, which is also important. The abundance of insects we encounter on the road means they splatter against the glass and it needs cleaning every so often.

All the car’s components must be in perfect condition

For that reason, the wipers must also be in perfect condition, even if no rain is expected in the area where we are. Good visibility is essential. If you are going to drive at night, it is also advisable to keep the headlights clean. Wiping them with a damp cloth removes insect residue and allows a brighter light, which helps us see better and be seen.

Car maintenance is also important during the summer All the engine fluid reservoirs (brakes, steering, etc.) must have fluid between the maximum and minimum marks. Keeping within those levels gives peace of mind. If any leak is detected, it must be repaired as soon as possible, by taking the car to the workshop, to prevent it from getting worse and causing problems. These checks should always be done before setting off on a long trip, but they should also be carried out regularly even for short journeys, to keep the car in perfect condition.

Tyres are also important. In summer, the heat of the asphalt can affect their condition and they may wear more on the surface. We remind you that the tread depth should measure at least 1.8 millimetres, so if it is less, you should consider replacing them in order to drive with complete safety. You should also check that there are no cracks in the rubber, as these could cause damage to the tyre and even blowouts.

Air conditioning is important in summer

Finally, check one of the elements used most during these hot weeks: the ventilation and air conditioning. The filters are important and must be kept clean. It is advisable to take the car to the workshop as soon as summer begins and we start using the air conditioning. The workshop will check the condition of the filters and recharge the system so that you can enjoy the refreshing coolness we are looking for in the car.

That said, you can also cool the interior of the car before setting off, avoiding the need to use the air conditioning. Although the result will lower the temperature, it will not create the chill that air conditioning provides. Before getting into the car, it is advisable to open the car doors, airing out the interior. The temperature will drop considerably this way.

When parking, you should look for shade and, if that is not possible, at least cover the windscreen so the sun does not come in directly. Direct sunlight can damage the dashboard materials, so it is better to avoid it. Driving for a few minutes with the front windows down also creates a current of air that lowers the temperature and means the air conditioning has to work less and reaches a comfortable temperature more quickly once it is switched on.

Following these tips, you can start the summer more relaxed as far as your car is concerned, and enjoy your holidays even more.