Summer heat can be as harsh to a car as chilly winters. But you don’t need to worry as there are some ways through which you can check and keep your vehicle in good condition. The below article will help you learn things, such as how to recognize common signs of car breakdown before they happen and what to do in case of emergencies. Read on to find out.
1. Problems due to battery
The battery gives a hard time to cars in winter and can be a bit easier on them in summer. But it can be the leading reason behind a car’s breakdown in hot weather.
Reasons
· Increased stop-start activity leads to battery issues.
· In slow traffic and long journeys, people often plug-in devices such as mobiles, tablets and entertainment, which puts pressure on the battery and can damage it.
· Crawling in slow traffic also puts a toll on the battery.
Signs
· Facing difficulty in starting the car.
· Lights taking time to turn on or appear dim.
Prevention
· Consider replacing the battery after four to five years.
· Charge your battery after regular short trips or search for car breakdown recovery services in Warrington.
2. Puncture issues in summers
You might not believe it, but many drivers don’t keep a spare tyre in the car. And we all know punctures are inevitable. Though one can tackle minor problems with tyres on their own, serious ones can only be tackled with the help of a repair kit or a mechanic.
How to prevent this?
Keep a spare tyre in your car along with a puncture kit.
3. Clutch damage
· Summers can be harsh on your clutch.
· Clutch is used more in slow-moving traffic, and driving on unfamiliar roads in remote locations also puts a toll on it.
Reasons
· Towing is the biggest reason for clutch failure.
· Also, unfamiliar locations such as unexpected hills can increase strain to it.
Symptoms
· The clutch does not fail immediately; it will give you signs such as a heavy pedal, etc. You just need to put enough attention towards it.
How to prevent it?
· Carry out an MOT in Warrington.
· Know about your route in advance.
· Familiarize yourself with your car towing capacity.
3. Alternator problems
· It is one of the most costly repairs in a car.
Reasons
· Alternator problem arises when there are battery issues.
· Hot weather and power-hungry devices put a heavy toll on the alternator.
Warning signs
· Red battery light in car.
Some Car summer maintenance tips
1. Check the cooling systems
A leaking cooling system is one of the most common reasons behind vehicle overheating and extensive engine damage. If you own a vehicle with an air conditioner and see a small amount of water on the floor, don’t get afraid- it is due to the condensation of your air conditioning system, so it is normal.
2. Examine your convertible roof
If you have one and you haven’t used it for a long time. Check it by manually opening and closing it.
3. Inspect all dashboard lights
Dashboard warning lights indicate a possible problem in your car. It, therefore, must be in good working conditions. Consult a mechanic- if it is not operating correctly.
4. Get your fan belt checked
A fan belt also called an auxiliary belt, must be in good condition. To ensure if it is working perfectly, get it checked from a local dealer or garage.
5. Check the jack and wheel brace
They should be in good working conditions as they will allow you to change the tyre in the middle of your journey if anything happens. It is also beneficial to practice changing the spare tyre from the car manual.
Note: If your vehicle does not come with a jack and wheel brace, learn how to use a tyre repair kit.
