Prepare your car for summer and protect it from the scorching heat

In this guide, we’ll explore how to best prepare your car for the summer season, improving its safety, performance, and longevity.

Cooling system check

The cooling system is the first line of defense against engine overheating. Making sure the coolant level is correct is essential. It is also good practice to check for leaks in the hoses or damage to the radiator. An inefficient radiator or a malfunctioning thermostat can cause serious engine damage, especially when the car is left in the sun for long periods.

According to data from a 2023 ACI study, 24% of summer breakdowns recorded in Italy involved cooling system problems, often caused by inadequate maintenance. Preventive intervention is therefore crucial.

Air conditioning efficiency

An efficient air conditioner is not only a comfort, but a necessity in the hottest months. Checking that the air conditioning system is working properly and that there is no lack of refrigerant gas is essential. In case of strange odors or reduced effectiveness, it may be necessary to replace the cabin filter or perform a complete sanitization of the circuit.

Checking and replacing fluids

In addition to coolant, it is important to check the engine oil, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid levels. Engine oil, in particular, plays a vital role in protecting the engine from wear and tear and overheating.

As pointed out by autoparti.it, it claims that regular oil changes during high summer temperatures can reduce engine wear by up to 30%, extending its life. High temperatures accelerate oil oxidation, reducing its lubricating effectiveness.

Table 1: Recommended intervals for fluid monitoring in summer

Type of liquid	Recommended check frequency
Engine oil	Every 5,000 km or before long journeys
Coolant	Every 3 months
Brake fluid	Every 10,000 km or 12 months
Windshield washer fluid	Every month

Tires and correct pressure

Heat can alter tire pressure, increasing the risk of a blowout. Too low or too high a pressure can compromise road holding and increase fuel consumption. Regularly checking the pressure (preferably when cold) and the state of tread wear is therefore essential.

Statistically, ISTAT reported that in 2022, approximately 18% of summer road accidents were related to tire problems, including blowouts due to overheating of the asphalt.

Body and interior protection

Prolonged exposure to UV rays can discolor your car's paint and damage the interior, especially dashboards and leather seats. Using a windshield sunshade, reflective seat covers, and, if possible, parking in the shade or using a breathable car cover can prevent this damage.

In addition, specific treatments with protective waxes for the bodywork or anti-UV sprays for the interior can maintain the appearance of the car for longer. These products help to form a protective barrier against the sun and ozone, reducing the effect of premature aging of materials.

Battery and electrical components

While we often associate battery failure with winter, summer can be just as damaging. Excessive heat accelerates the evaporation of acid within the battery, reducing its efficiency.

A voltage check and cleaning of oxidized terminals are simple interventions that prevent sudden malfunctions. If the battery is more than three years old, considering a replacement before the holidays can avoid unpleasant surprises.

Table 2: Effects of heat on automotive components

Component	Effect of heat	Potential consequence
Drums	Liquid evaporation	Difficult or no start-up
Tires	Increased pressure	Risk of explosion
Engine oil	Fast oxidation	Less engine protection
Paint and interior	Direct UV rays	Discoloration and deterioration

Preparing your car for travel

Summer is the holiday season and many Italians travel hundreds of kilometers on the highway. Before leaving, it is advisable to do a complete check-up: check the brakes, suspension, lights and windshield wipers. Keeping water, a flashlight, a warning triangle and a first aid kit in the car is always a good habit.

Finally, keeping your windshield clean and replacing worn wiper blades improves visibility and safety, especially during sudden summer storms.

Conclusion

Facing the summer with a ready and protected car means traveling safely, saving on repairs and maintaining the value of the vehicle over time. High temperatures put every component of the vehicle to the test, but with targeted checks and preventive maintenance it is possible to prevent most problems. Preparing the car is not just a technical issue, but an act of responsibility towards oneself, passengers and other road users.