Safe summer driving…

Driving in hot conditions can increase stress levels and place extra demands on your car, with heat being just as hard on your car as the winter cold. With that in mind, here are a few essential tips to keep your summer driving on track and avoid breakdowns:
 
Check your engine's coolant levels
High temperatures can aggravate your engine’s cooling system and a leaking cooling system or inoperative cooling fan could cause your vehicle to overheat. Tip – have your cooling system and electric cooling fan checked to ensure both are operating as they should.
 
Keep the battery charged
Stop-start activity on long journeys and a greater number of devices all plugged in can place more demand on the battery and alternator, potentially causing issues. Warning signs include lethargic starting, lights appearing dimmer and dashboard lights not working. Tip - if your battery isn’t holding its charge and is older than 3 years, it may be time to replace it.
 
Avoid a blowout by checking tyres
A long road trip may highlight any issues with tyres, especially if the rubber is old and cracked. Poor preparation can lead to blowouts, especially in higher temperatures. Tip – check the condition and pressure of your tyres before embarking on a long journey, including caravan or trailer tyres. Increase the pressure to suit extra loads, as advised in your handbook.
 
Be prepared for a puncture
A puncture can happen at any time but is more likely if you’re covering more miles and your car is laden with passengers and luggage. Tip – make sure you have a spare tyre in the boot. If you have a tyre repair kit, familiarise yourself with how to use it, but it will only be of use if you have a minor puncture, not if the tyre is ripped, torn or shredded.
 
Check the clutch
Driving in an unfamiliar landscape or towing a caravan can put added strain on the clutch. Tip - familiarise yourself with the route and make sure your car has the right towing capacity for your caravan or trailer. If your clutch slips, feels heavy or gritty or has a high bite, get it checked out.
 
Check the alternator
Alternator issues are related to the battery and can arise following excessive demand. A replacement can be expensive as you may also need a new drive belt. Tip – if you see a red battery warning light flickering or fully illuminating on the dashboard, pull over and call for assistance: you’ll need to get to a garage.
 
Keep keys safe and dry
It’s easy to lose keys in the sand or get your remote control wet if you go for a swim. Tip – keep keys safe and dry, and check your handbook to see if there’s an alternative way to open the doors. The AA offers a nationwide mobile service, Key Assist, on 0800 048 2800.
 
Other advice

• Keep your windscreen clean and replace worn windscreen wipers
• Wear sunglasses to avoid dazzle from the sun
• Take regular breaks if you’re feeling tired
• Get someone else to drive if you’re suffering from hay fever
• Keep your distance from the car in front and stick to any temporary speed limit - loose chippings can cause damage to headlights, windscreens and paintwork
• Don’t throw cigarette nubs out of the window : verges can be dry and easily ignite
• Keep plenty of distance behind a tractor and allow plenty of room if overtaking
• Keep the interior cool and always carry lots of fluids. 

We hope you have a trouble-free summer without any motoring issues, but please don’t forget the importance of car insurance, in case you have a mishap. For a tailored quote and prompt cover, call TMD on 01992 703 000 or email: insurance@mcdonaghs.co.uk