Driving in a heatwave - the faults that can seriously damage your car.

As the UK is going to enjoy a super scorching weekend, we thought we would make drivers aware of the potential damage that the hot weather could be doing to their vehicle.Driving during a heatwave can bring with it a number of issues for drivers.

Not only must the driver deal with the internal heat and glare, but what damage heat exposure can do to a vehicle.  With around 42 million license drivers on the road in the UK this summer, motorists must take care to make sure they are protected.

Tips for driving in extreme heat

1. Check your engine fluids. 

Engine fluids are essential to keeping your vehicle running. These fluids lubricate your vehicle’s parts and act as a coolant by carrying heat away from important parts. High summer temperatures will evaporate your vehicle’s fluid levels and reduce their cooling effect, which leads to overheating.

You should check all of your vehicle’s fluids, including:

Motor oil
Transmission fluid
Power steering fluid
Brake fluid

These should be completely filled. If they need to be replaced, be sure to check your owner’s manual to make sure you are using the right type of fluid.

2. Inspect your tyres before you start any journey.

The heat may cause the air inside your tyre to expand and affect the pressure, which could cause a blow out.  It can also cause the rubber to disintergrate if being driven for long periods on hot surfaces.  Make sure your tyres are in tip top condition before setting out.

3. Check your washer fluid and wipers.

The hot weather will bring those pesky little bugs out and you can guarentee that your windscreen will be covered in them!  make sure the wipers are in good condition and that you washer fluid is topped up, so you can wipe off any pesky bug remenants.

4. PROTECT YOUR BATTERY.

Vehicle batteries are made of acide and water, and water evaporates faster than the acid in hot temperatures, leaving lead plates bare.  Park your car in the shade to prevent levels dropping.  Also, make sure make sure your battery is securely attached to your vehicle, to prevent damage from the vibration when moving.

5. Make sure you have your sunnies!

These are important in any driving kit as they reduce glare and make it easier to see hazards, signs and lights.

6. Pack cool drinks in your car, not your boot.

Its always a good idea to keep drinks in the car, which will keep you refreshed and not too trained to be concentrating on the roads.  If you are travelling with kids, take along a cool box with cold drinks and treats and make sure you all wear loose clothing to stop overheating if you dont have airconditioning.

7. Invest in a sunshade.

There is nothing worse than getting into a sweltering hot car (especially if you have leather seats and are wearing shorts!) and burn your hands on the wheel.  You can purchase reflective sun shades for the windsheild which will help the car from getting too hot.  

8. Finally and most importantly....

DO NOT LEAVE CHILDREN OR PETS IN THE CAR.