We felt it prudent to go “off track” with our blog this week. Normally, you will find us writing about learning to drive and everything that goes with it. However, this past week or so, the UK has experienced a heat-wave. Something that appeared to take everyone by surprise, especially given the winter we’ve just experienced.
As usual, there are has been various reports in the news stating how people are suffering as a result. In some cases, people were even sent home from work! However, what we intend to deal with today is the safety and comfort of your car when the UK does get extremely warm temperatures.
General Car Maintenance
Tyres
Your tyres will warm up far quicker when the weather is hot (for obvious reasons). This is why it’s imperative you check the air pressure is correct. In fact, this should be part of your routine car maintenance but, it’s especially important in hot weather. The reason is that rubber swells and that’s what your tyres are essentially made of. Air also swells in the heat.
Put the two together and you have a recipe for disaster. In the very worst case scenario, you may suffer a blowout while you’re on the motorway, and the consequences can be disastrous. If you’re not sure how to check your tyre pressure, consult the handbook that comes with your vehicle. If you’re still unsure, ask someone who is likely to know.
Water
Yes, it is a good idea to keep a small bottle or two in the car so you can remain hydrated if you get caught in a traffic jam. But, you should also remember that your car gets thirsty too. Make sure the water levels are where they should be or you could end-up on the side of the road with an overheated radiator. You should also make sure you have plenty of screen-wash to keep those pesky insect remains at bay.
Keeping Yourself Comfortable
Lots of cars these days have air-conditioning. At the very least, they give you the option to turn the air that comes out of the vents to cold. Once you’re aware a hot spell of weather is on the way, make sure your air-conditioning is working, especially if you’re going on a long journey. As mentioned, make sure you keep plenty of drinking water in the car as well. Heat exhaustion can catch you unawares, and whilst accidents caused by this are very rare, you don’t want to take the chance.
If you have leather seats, these will need to be shielded from the sun. Not only will this help to keep the upholstery in tip-top condition, it will save you from a burnt behind when you get into the car. You may also want to consider keeping a towel to sit on (leather can get pretty sweaty).
Overall
These are just a few very basic points to consider when you’re out driving in extremely warm temperatures. Just bear in mind your car needs to stay cool just as much as you do!
