Don’t let summer heat damage your vehicle or ruin your drive! Discover expert tips for summer car maintenance to keep your car running smoothly, protect its interior, and ensure a cool and comfortable ride all season long.
Summer might seem like the perfect time to relax and enjoy the open road, but it’s also a critical season for car care. High temperatures, strong sunlight, and unexpected conditions can wreak havoc on your vehicle if you’re not prepared. From keeping the interior cool to protecting the engine, we’ve compiled 15 expert tips to help you keep your car in top-notch condition throughout the summer months.
1. Keep Moisture Out to Prevent Mould
Moisture trapped under your car mats might seem harmless, but it can turn into a mouldy nightmare during the hot summer months. The dampness encourages fungal growth, leading to an unpleasant smell and damage to your car’s interior. Always check for damp spots and dry them thoroughly to maintain a fresh, clean interior.
2. Protect Your Steering Wheel from Burning Heat
Ever returned to your car only to find the steering wheel too hot to handle? A simple trick to avoid this is to turn the wheel 180 degrees before parking. The part you’ll grip when you return will remain shaded, saving your fingers from frying!
3. Combat Scorching Gear Levers and Seatbelt Buckles
Gear levers and seatbelt buckles can become dangerously hot under the summer sun. Solve this problem by covering them with an insulated drink sleeve or spraying them with a little water to cool them down quickly. Keep this hack in mind to avoid discomfort and burns.
4. Say Goodbye to Funky Car Smells
Summer heat can cause unpleasant odours to linger in your car. A simple yet effective solution is taping a dryer sheet to the air conditioning vents. Not only does it eliminate smells, but it also leaves a fresh, clean scent in your car.
5. Let Your Engine Warm Up – Even in Summer
Engines need proper lubrication to operate smoothly, and the oil doesn’t reach its optimal state immediately. Let your engine run for about 30 seconds before driving off. This simple step prevents wear and tear and ensures your car performs at its best.
6. Use AC or Open Windows – Smartly
Driving slowly? Open the windows to save fuel as the air conditioning uses more energy at low speeds. At higher speeds, however, keep the windows closed and use the AC. This reduces drag and helps your car run more efficiently on highways.
7. Beware of Air Hissing from the Fuel Cap
If you hear a hiss when opening your fuel cap, don’t worry! It’s caused by either pressure differences or vapour accumulation in the tank. However, if fuel leaks out, consult a mechanic immediately to avoid potential hazards.
8. The Ice Block Hack for Weak AC Systems
If your air conditioning isn’t cutting it, an old-school trick can save the day. Place a block of ice in a shallow pan on the floorboards under the vents. It may not be modern, but it’s surprisingly effective for cooling the interior!
9. Cool Drinks on the Go
Turn your glove box into a mini cooler! Many vehicles have a small vent that channels AC air into the glove compartment. Use it to keep your drinks cool during a summer drive – no need to lug a cooler around.
10. Close Visor Mirrors While Driving
The mirrors on your sun visors might seem harmless, but they’re made of glass and can shatter in an accident. Play it safe by keeping them closed while driving. Safety first!
11. Don’t Leave Items on the Dashboard
Leaving items on your dashboard on a hot summer day is a recipe for disaster. Intense heat can melt items, cause batteries to ignite, or even start a fire. Always use a metallic sunshade or cover the dashboard with a towel to protect it.
12. Avoid Parking Under Trees
While shade is essential, parking under trees can lead to sticky messes from sap, resin, or berries that damage your car’s paint. If stains occur, clean them immediately with soapy water or specialised cleaning products to prevent long-term damage.
13. Polish Your Car for Summer Protection
Shield your car from insects, stains, and summer debris by applying a few coats of polish at the start of the season. You can even make your own polish using soap flakes, beeswax, and jojoba oil for a protective, glossy finish.
14. Maintain Your Engine Cooling System
Regularly flushing the engine cooling system is crucial in summer. Check coolant levels in the reservoir and inspect rubber hoses for cracks or soft spots. And remember – never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot!
15. Prepare for Summer Breakdowns Breakdowns can happen when temperatures soar. Carry an emergency kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, jumper cables, a flashlight, and basic tools. If the engine overheats, turn the heater on full blast temporarily to reduce engine temperature until help arrives.
