Six problems that can impact your car in summer – and how to fix them
With the summer season here, a car expert has warned motorists to be aware of common problems that could affect your car’s lifespan.
From hot weather, long car journeys to driving your car less while on holiday, Louis Rix, car expert from CarFinance 247 shares the problems that can impact your car – and how to fix them – to help keep your car in tip-top condition.
Problem 1: Not driving your car while on holiday
If you’re going on holiday – and you’re not taking your car – leaving it on the driveway motionless for an extended period of time can affect the battery, as it will lose charge when the vehicle isn’t being used.
On average, a standard car battery can hold its charge for around four weeks but this can vary depending on the climate, how old the battery is and the make and model of your car. We always recommend driving your car every two to three weeks to help keep it in running condition.
If you’re going on holiday for several weeks, make sure to remember to give your vehicle a drive round for 15-30 minutes before you go, to help the battery stay in good condition.
If you have an electric car, you can leave this for an extended period of time, unplugged. EV batteries are large and can hold charge for a long time.
Problem 2: Hot weather
Another trigger which can affect your car’s performance and life span is hot temperatures. Higher temperatures can cause the fluids in your car to operate a higher temperature, increasing the risk of your engine overheating.
A warning light should appear on the temperature light or gauge if your engine is overheating but other signs include a ticking sound coming from the engine, coolant on the ground, a hot hood or reduced engine power.
If you suspect your engine is overheating, do not drive your car. Pull over if your temperature gauge starts to tick up too high. While this typically shouldn’t be a problem on well-maintained modern cars, it could be a problem for older vehicles.
Problem 3: Tree sap and pollen
Another problem for your car in the summer months is tree sap. If you park under a tree in summer, you might notice a sticky residue on your car. This is caused by tree sap droplets.
If tree sap is left on your car, the sap can harden, causing paint damage. To prevent this, remove it as soon as possible with lots of hot water and a soapy solution – washing detergent or shampoo works fine. Use a good windscreen wash to clear the windscreen from sap too.
Problem 4: Storms and heavy downpours of rain
While it’s the summer season, thunderstorms and heavy rain can still catch us out and be a risk. Heavy rain and floods can be a risk for your car’s health. If you drive through deep puddles of standing water, this can get sucked into the engine which can cause breakdowns or even long-term damage to your car’s electrical system.
If you do drive through a flood, check your brakes as they can become clogged after driving through water. To test, apply them on and off while moving to help dry them.
Problem 5: Not preparing for long car journeys
Your car is designed to drive both long and short distances and as long as it’s properly maintained and serviced regularly, it should be fine.
However, if your vehicle is an older model, you might find long journeys can be a trigger of problems – especially if you’ve not prepared accordingly.
Ahead of a long car journey, always make sure to check your tires and their pressure. Look over the sidewalls for any cracks or cuts, as this could lead to a blowout. Make sure you have a spare wheel and ensure this is inflated to the correct pressures, in case you need it.
Before setting off, we always advise motorists to check oil levels too. If your oil is low, this can cause your engine to overheat.
If you’re heading to Europe by car, we recommend reading this advice too.
Problem 6: Off-road journeys
If you’re heading on a staycation this summer and exploring areas off the beaten track, you might find the roads a little bumpier than normal…
Be cautious if you’re driving off the beaten track or in rural areas, as the roads can often be uneven, which can cause complications for your car.
If you hit a pothole, particularly at speed, this can damage your exhaust pipe or the catalytic converter under your car – as well as its suspension system. This can cause problems such as wheel misalignment, as well as potential punctures on your tyres.
To help avoid this, make sure to drive over any bumps slowly – or around them if you can. If possible, try not to slam the brakes on when you spot a bump ahead either as braking harshly can shift the car’s weight to the front which can affect the suspension.
