All drivers urged to use 20p to check their car this summer

During the summer months, many individuals plan road trips or visits to friends to make the most of the warmer weather. Regular vehicle checks are crucial throughout the year, but the heat can pose specific challenges for certain car components.

Vytas Palovis, VP of Growth at car parts marketplace Ovoko, has highlighted the most common issues to be aware of this summer to avoid any car troubles. They said: "The stark contrast in weather conditions and temperature can significantly affect your car's performance, particularly the coolant level and brakes, so regular checks are essential.

"Not only can this save you from expensive repairs, but it could also prevent a potentially hazardous situation. Remember, these maintenance tips are vital all year round, and if you're uncertain about any of these preparations, consult your car manual or speak to a professional."

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Low engine coolant

Monitoring your car's engine coolant is vital to prevent overheating, especially in the summer when temperatures are typically higher.

While your engine coolant level shouldn't drop significantly, debris can build up over time from regular use, discolouring the coolant to a brown or muddy hue. Over time, coolant can also become more acidic, potentially causing corrosive damage to the cooling system and affecting its ability to cool the engine effectively.

As a general guideline, the engine coolant should be drained and replaced every 30,000 miles as part of your car's major service. However, it's always best to refer to your vehicle's manual first, as some models may require less frequent changes.

If your coolant level seems lower than the recommended fill levels, you can top it up yourself at home using the type of coolant specified in your vehicle's manual.

Before opening the bonnet and locating the coolant reservoir, make sure the engine has completely cooled down. Otherwise, you risk being exposed to hot pressurised coolant when you remove the coolant cap.

Ensure that your coolant reservoir is topped up to the max line before securing the cap back in place. Regularly needing to top up your engine coolant level could indicate a leak, which will need to be addressed by a mechanic.

Inspect your tyres

Ambient temperature increases of 10C can raise tyre pressure by 1-2 PSI. This, combined with increased heat from contact with the road, can increase pressure and heighten the chances of your tyre blowing out.

Most passenger cars have a recommended tyre pressure of 30 - 35 PSI, but it's best to consult your manual for your vehicle's specific tyre pressure range.

Maintaining optimal tyre pressure can prevent flat tyres or blowouts and help maximise fuel efficiency on long trips. Don't forget to check the air pressure of your spare tyre too, to ensure it's a reliable alternative in case of an emergency.

Warmer weather can increase the wear and tear on your tyres, so keep an eye out for any cracks and bulges, and listen for any unusual noises as you drive.

Ensure your tyres are up to scratch by checking they meet the minimum limit of 1.6 millimetres across the central three-quarters of the tyre tread. A handy tip is to insert a 20p coin into the tread - if you can see the outer banding of the coin, it's a sign that your tyre may be below the limit.

Check your brakes

Don't forget to check your brakes after a harsh winter. Warmer temperatures can affect their performance, so listen out for any squealing or growling sounds when testing them.

Also, pay attention to any pulling to one side while driving, as this could indicate an issue.

Check your air conditioning

As the weather heats up, air conditioning becomes crucial for comfort during car journeys. Ensure your AC system is working effectively before the mercury rises too high.

If it's not cooling properly or is blowing out hot air, you might need to top up the refrigerant or re-gas your air-con system at a garage or using a specialist kit.

Windscreen and wiper maintenance

Maintain your windscreen and wipers. Make sure your car's water reservoir is topped up so you can use your windscreen wipers effectively.

This is particularly important in summer when pollen, sap and dust can accumulate on your windscreen and may not be washed away by rain.

It's also crucial to inspect your windscreen wipers for any signs of wear and tear. The heat can cause the rubber on your wiper blades to degrade, reducing their effectiveness at clearing your screen.

Seek out shade

Whenever possible, aim to park your vehicle in a shaded area. This not only keeps you and your passengers cool but also safeguards your car's interior and exterior paintwork from sun damage.

If shade is scarce, consider using window shades as they can help block out UV heat.

Maintain cleanliness

While it may seem self-evident, keeping your car clean is key to its upkeep throughout the year. This helps prevent food items like chocolate or sticky sweets dropped by kids from melting into the car's interior during hot weather.