August 12th 2024.
The summer heat can be brutal, and it's not just humans who suffer. Your car could also be at risk if you leave it out in the scorching sun. The roads in the UK are already filled with dangers like potholes and reckless drivers, but now there's another concern – the damage that the hot weather can cause to your vehicle. The Met Office has predicted temperatures of up to 34°C today, and if you're not careful, you could end up spending a fortune on repairs. So, here's what you need to watch out for to avoid any unnecessary expenses.
There are a few ways to prevent your car from being damaged by the heat. The cost of repairing heat damage can be quite high, and experts have warned drivers about the potential risks. Justin Hall, the director of engineering at IMO Car Wash, has raised concerns about the damaging effects of UV rays. He explained, "Powerful UV rays can cause the pigments in your paintwork to deteriorate, leading to discoloration. And high temperatures can cause the metal components of your vehicle to expand and contract, which could result in warping and misalignment." On top of that, prolonged exposure to heat can also cause small cracks in your windshield and windows to get bigger, making it illegal and dangerous to drive with a cracked windscreen. Repairing a windscreen can cost anywhere from £40 to £100, and replacing it entirely can set you back up to £450.
But that's not all. There are other ways that the sun and heat can wreak havoc on your car. The Driving Instructors Association has listed five common issues that cars face during a heatwave. First, your car's engine coolant levels need to be monitored, just like how we need to stay hydrated in the heat. Low coolant levels combined with overheating can cause severe damage to your car's structure. Second, the air conditioning system can accumulate bacteria over time, especially after the winter months. It's best to get a professional clean to take care of this. Third, hot weather can cause the air in your tires to expand, leading to overinflated tires that could potentially explode. Fourth, the battery – the heart of your car – can also overheat. This is especially risky for cars that are parked in the sun or not driven frequently with the windows up. If your dashboard shows a warning light, pull over safely and let the car cool down for at least half an hour. And lastly, your fuel levels can also be affected by the heat. Fuel tends to run out faster in hot weather, so consider filling up your tank halfway to be more fuel-efficient and keep track of your consumption. According to experts, a £50 top-up may only give you £46 worth of petrol.
After today's hot spell, the temperature is expected to stay in the mid to high 20°C range in the southeast and London for the rest of the week. Keep in mind that different counties in the UK have different thresholds for a heatwave. In Greater London and parts of the south, a heatwave is declared when temperatures reach or exceed 28°C for at least three consecutive days. So, be prepared and take care of your car during this heatwave to avoid any unexpected costs.
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