Summer is hard on cars. Heat speeds up wear on batteries, cooling systems and tyres, and the long drives to the coast or up the Hume come with bigger stakes if something gives out halfway. A bit of preparation in spring goes a long way, and most of it doesn’t take long or cost much.
Victorian summers are also getting hotter. The state has warmed by about 1.2°C since 1910, and climate projections for Victoria suggest Melbourne could see nearly three days above 40°C a year on average by mid-century, up from fewer than one. So it’s worth getting the car ready before the first hot spell rather than after it.
Start with the battery
Most people think of winter as the time batteries die, but heat does just as much damage. High temperatures speed up the chemical reactions inside a battery and can cause fluid loss, which shortens its life. The problem often shows up months later on a cold morning, but the harm was done over summer.
If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested. Check that the terminals are clean and free of the white, crusty build-up that points to corrosion. A slow crank when starting is an early warning telling you that you might need to change the battery soon.
Keep the cooling system healthy
The engine’s cooling system works hardest on hot days, especially in stop-start traffic. Check the coolant level when the engine is cold, never when it’s hot, and top it up with the type recommended in your owner’s manual. Look over the radiator hoses for cracks, soft spots or bulges.
Keep an eye on the temperature gauge while you drive. If it climbs above normal, pull over somewhere safe and let the engine cool before doing anything else. Overheating can damage an engine quickly, and a cracked cylinder head is a far bigger bill than a new hose.
Check your tyres
Hot roads and heavy loads put extra strain on tyres. Check the pressure regularly, ideally first thing in the morning before driving, because warm tyres give a higher reading. The correct pressures are usually on a placard inside the driver’s door or fuel flap. Underinflated tyres run hotter and wear faster, and they can fail on a long trip. While you’re there, look for cracks, bulges and uneven tread.
