It is the summer season and lovely warm temperatures, long holiday drives and summer storms, so it is no surprise that problems arise with our cars at this time of year. Many people presume that winter is the worst season for breakdowns, but that is not the case. All seasons come with an equal chance of car disaster. By making sure you get your car serviced and perform general maintenance checks before long journeys, you should avoid the worst of summer related car issues.
With the hot weather now with us, it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with common vehicle issues you may experience so you can spot the signs early. If you are wondering why the rising temperatures can have a negative effect on engines, read on for some of the most common car problems we fix here at Pontypool Accident and Repair Centre.
Air Conditioning Repairs
The continuous heat causes air conditioning systems to be tested to their absolute limits. Even on cooler days it can seem impossible to lower the temperature inside vehicles. However, air conditioning systems are very complex and there are a few issues which can arise with them. Leaks, for example, can be avoided by getting the air conditioning service done regularly. If it does break, topping up every couple of years will keep it as efficient as possible. This will also prevent any bad odours and make sure the system is not releasing any harmful pollutants into the atmosphere
Engine Overheating Problems
Traffic jams, long journeys and hot weather are a recipe for disaster. It is easy for many engines to overheat but there are ways prevent it from happening. Check the cooling fan is in use, and the coolant levels are correct to keep the engine at a safe temperature. If you think your engine may be prone to overheating, visit the PARC garage to get it checked out by a mechanic. We can then be able to advise if any parts need replacing. Your car can dangerously overheat so always keep an eye on the engine temperature on hot days.
Tyre Puncture Accidents
Did you know that hot roads can put more pressure on tyres? High temperatures can also worsen any current damage to tyres, meaning punctures are quite common during the summer. Check the tyre pressure regularly! If the pressure is dropping quickly then you may have a slow puncture, the PARC garage can sort this for you. You should also ensure the tyre tread doesn’t fall below the legal limit of 1.6mm.
It is also safe to keep a spare tire in the back of your vehicle, especially for long journeys. Extra weight in the car from passengers and luggage can also cause tyre problems, including punctures which cannot be repaired. Don’t get stranded in the middle of nowhere – make sure you have a spare tyre to use in emergencies! Callout breakdown services often struggle to locate a new tyre for your car, so it also saves a lot of time by keeping a spare tire.
Bodywork damage
There is often roadworks and resurfacing going on around summer, which could cause damage to the exterior of your car. Stay within the recommended speed limit when driving through road work zones, to prevent loose stones and debris from hitting and scratching the bodywork. Bodywork damage is usually totally preventable if you stay aware on the roads and drive within the speed limit.
The hot months are just as challenging as winter for our vehicles – so stay alert and take measures to avoid these common summer problems. If you are relying on your car for holidays, summer road trips or to get you to those special occasions such as weddings or festivals, then you really need to stay on top of vehicle maintenance and have it looked at by a professional mechanic if you have any concerns. We are only a phone call away here at Pontypool Accident and Repair Garage.
Clutch Replacement
The way we drive in the summer can have an adverse effect on the clutch. Sitting in slow moving traffic, towing an extra vehicle or driving on unfamiliar remote roads takes a toll on the clutch. The good news is that a clutch rarely fails out of the blue – there will be warning signs to watch out for. These could be a high clutch bite or the pedal feeling heavy. If you can feel your clutch changing then it’s always a good idea to get it checked out, especially if you have long journeys planned.
The hot months are just as challenging as winter for our vehicles – so stay alert and take measures to avoid these common problems. If at any point you do find yourself in a pickle, call Pontypool Accident & Repair Centre and we’ll be happy to help!