Seasonal Car Care: Preparing Your Car for Summer

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• account_circleCarTango Advice Team
• event_note31 March 2025
• update06 August 2025

Summer is a time for road trips, family outings, and enjoying the open road — but the heat and busy roads can take their toll on your car if it isn’t properly prepared. Even small issues that are easy to overlook in cooler months can become major headaches under the summer sun.

Taking a little extra time to check your vehicle and get it ready for the season can save you stress, money, and ensure your drives stay safe and enjoyable. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to keep your car in tip-top shape for summer — from cooling systems to tyres, fluids, and interior comfort. Think of it as giving your car the summer TLC it deserves, so you can focus on the fun parts of the season.

Why Seasonal Car Care Matters

Cars are designed to handle a variety of conditions, but each season brings unique challenges.

Even routine maintenance that’s fine in winter might not be enough to prevent summer breakdowns or damage. By taking a few proactive steps, you can avoid stress, extra expenses, and enjoy smoother, safer drives.

1. Cooling System Check

Overheating is one of the leading causes of breakdowns during hot months. While many car owners remember to top up their coolant in winter, summer is equally critical. A functioning cooling system keeps your engine from boiling over, especially on long motorway journeys.

Before hitting the road:

• Coolant Level & Quality: Ensure it’s topped up with the correct mix of antifreeze and water. Antifreeze isn’t just for winter — it also raises the boiling point to protect your engine.
• Hoses & Radiator: Inspect for cracks, leaks, or swelling, which can worsen in heat.
• Fan Operation: Confirm that the radiator fan activates correctly at operating temperature.

A little attention here can prevent major engine problems and roadside headaches.

2. Air Conditioning Service

Summer driving isn’t just about comfort — it’s about safety too. A sweltering cabin can lead to fatigue, reduced concentration, and longer reaction times. Regularly checking and servicing your AC ensures it works efficiently:

• Check Cooling Performance: Warm air instead of cold? You may need a refrigerant top-up.
• Cabin Filter: A clean filter improves airflow and keeps the air free from pollen and dust.
• Professional Service: Musty smells indicate bacterial build-up that needs treatment.

Keeping the cabin cool also helps protect your interior from heat-related wear.

3. Tyre Care

Summer roads can be punishing, with high temperatures and heavy loads from holiday travel. Proper tyre maintenance is essential for safety and efficiency. Here’s what to focus on:

• Pressure Check: Heat expands air, so check tyres when cold and adjust to recommended levels for your car.
• Tread Depth: Even in summer rain, worn tyres can aquaplane easily.
• Spare Tyre: Don’t forget to check the spare — it’s useless if flat or worn.

Regular tyre checks improve grip, braking, and fuel efficiency — all crucial for carefree summer drives.

4. Battery Health

While winter is notorious for battery issues, summer heat can also shorten battery life. Extreme temperatures speed up internal chemical reactions, sometimes causing failure when you least expect it. Clean terminals, a quick voltage test, and replacing an aging battery can save you from an inconvenient breakdown.

5. Fluid Top-Ups

Aside from coolant, your car relies on several other fluids to stay healthy. Warm weather accelerates wear and evaporation, so topping them up is essential:

• Engine Oil: Check the correct viscosity for summer driving.
• Brake Fluid: Hot weather can reduce braking efficiency if levels are low.
• Windscreen Washer: Use a summer-friendly fluid to tackle bugs and dust.

6. Protecting the Exterior

Summer sun isn’t just a problem for drivers — your car’s exterior suffers too. UV rays fade paint and damage trim over time. A little care can preserve your car’s appearance:

• Wash & Wax: Removes dirt, debris, and insect residue, while wax provides a protective layer.
• Trim Care: Use a UV protectant on plastic and rubber parts.
• Windscreen Protection: Small chips can worsen with heat — repair promptly.

Keeping your car looking its best also helps maintain resale value.

7. Interior Comfort & Protection

Long drives in high temperatures can be uncomfortable if the interior isn’t prepped. Beyond AC, simple measures improve comfort and preserve materials:

• Sunshades: Reduce cabin heat and protect dashboard surfaces.
• Seat Covers: Light-colored covers stay cooler than dark upholstery.
• UV Window Film: Blocks harmful rays and reduces fading.

8. Emergency Kit Updates

Summer breakdowns can happen far from help, so adapt your emergency kit for warmer conditions:

• Water: Stay hydrated, especially on hot roads.
• First Aid Kit: Replace used or expired items.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen and hats can make roadside stops more comfortable.

9. Planning for Summer Driving

Preparation isn’t just about maintenance — it’s about planning. Hot weather and busy roads can make travel stressful, but careful preparation ensures smoother journeys. Check your route, schedule rest breaks, and distribute luggage evenly to keep handling stable.

Final Thoughts

Summer can be the most enjoyable time to be on the road, but only if your car is ready. With a few proactive steps, you’ll have a safer, more comfortable ride, and your vehicle will stay in top condition. Think of it as giving your car everything it needs to shine during the sunny season.