Car in the heat: Five checks that can prevent breakdowns on the road

Summer trips often start with the same optimism: a full trunk, the air conditioning set to the coldest setting, and a plan to get to the sea, mountains, or a weekend house as soon as possible. But it is precisely summer that brings out weaknesses in the car that we don't notice during the milder months. High temperatures, crowds, slow driving in a queue, and long distances put a strain on the engine, tires, battery, and air conditioning system. That's why tonight's car topic is a practical one by rotation: what a driver should check before a trip, without panicking and without unnecessary complications.

The first thing is the cooling system. The coolant level should be checked when the engine is cold, and the container must be between the minimum and maximum marks. If the level drops frequently, you should not just top up and continue driving, as this may indicate a leak or a problem in the system. A temperature light, a message on the dashboard or steam under the hood are not “little things until the first service”, but a sign that you should stop safely and avoid major engine damage.

Another check is the tires. In the summer, the pressure changes with the temperature, and a loaded car with passengers and luggage requires the correct adjustment according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Underinflated tires heat up more, wear out faster and can increase fuel consumption, while a worn tread extends the stopping distance, especially if a hot day is followed by a downpour. Before the trip, you should also check the sidewalls of the tires: bulges, cracks or uneven wear are a signal for a tire repairer, not for "this trip again".

The third important part is the air conditioning system. If the air from the ventilation is no longer as cold as before, the most common first step is to check and top up the refrigerant, but this is not the only possible cause. The system could have a leak, a clogged cabin filter or a problem with the fan. The RAC states that air conditioning service is often recommended approximately every two years, while topping up and checking is done by a specialist because the system works under pressure and uses refrigerant. The most important rule of thumb for drivers is: you should not wait for the air conditioning to completely stop cooling, as poor performance also means more humidity in the cabin, more difficult demisting and a less comfortable ride.

The fourth point is oil, fluids and electricity. The engine oil should be checked before a long trip, as should the windshield washer fluid, especially in the summer because insects and dust quickly reduce visibility. You should also check the lights, turn signals and wipers, because summer showers often come suddenly. The battery is usually associated with winter, but heat also shortens its lifespan, especially if it is already several years old and if the car has a lot of electronics.

The most useful tip is not to check it an hour before departure. Give your car a day or two of rest: if you discover a coolant leak, poor air conditioning or a flat tire, there is time for a service. It is wise to have a basic kit in the trunk: water for passengers, a phone charger, a reflective vest, a triangle, basic tools, a rag and possibly windshield fluid. The point is not for every driver to become a mechanic, but to recognize the small signs that prevent a major breakdown. In the summer, it is the difference between a vacation that starts on time and a day spent on the side of the road.

Article prepared with the support of AI tools.