The temperature has certainly heated up over the last few weeks, which can make driving an uncomfortable experience. Best4 have put together our top tips to stay cool while travelling this summer.

Windows or air con?

Do you reach for the air con in the summer or close to roll down your windows and let the fresh air in? Whichever you decide, make sure you do not use both at once. Rather than producing the icy cool air, what happens is you waste a bunch of fuel. It is recommended when driving 30 mph or less, you should open your windows but once you pick up speed you should switch to air con. This technique also saves on fuel as open windows reduce the wind resistance of your car.

Invest in a windscreen shield

There’s nothing worse that coming back to your car after a long day in the sunshine to find it’s even hotter inside your car. To prevent the temperature building up, invest in a windscreen shield.

Stay hydrated

Being dehydrated can make you uncomfortable, irritable and reduce your ability to concentrate. Keep a good supply of water in the car, preferably in a reusable water bottle as plastic bottles can melt slightly in the heat causing chemicals from the plastic to leak into the water.

Pets and hot cars

One of the most important things to remember is how hot inside your car can get, especially when it is parked. It is vital that you do not leave any animals (or children) in the car on a hot day. Even a short amount of time can leave devastating consequences. If you need to travel with your pet, you must take them with you when you leave the car.

Sunglasses

Save yourself hours of squinting and re-adjusting the sunshade in your car by keeping a pair on sunglasses in the glovebox. Sun glare can impact your ability to observe your surroundings.

Effects on your car

Tyres

Driving on hot road services can cause damage to your tyres. Heat also leads to a rise in air pressure which can cause the air inside your tyres to expand.

Battery

Your vehicle battery contains a mix of acid and water. The water will evaporate much quicker than usual causing your plates to become exposed and then damaged. Once the weather turns colder, your battery may not be able to hold a charge which will prevent your car from starting.

Air Conditioning System

You are more likely to be using your air conditioning during the warmer weather, so expect it to need recharging or servicing to ensure it is working to its maximum potential.

Engine Coolant

Your engine coolant will play a vital role in the summer as it prevents your vehicle’s radiator system from overheating. Before setting off on a long journey, ensure the engine coolant levels are sufficient – you can check this by locating the min and max markers on the coolant tank itself.