Summer is a time for road trips, beach outings, and outdoor adventures, but the extreme heat can be tough on your car. Many drivers underestimate how the sweltering temperatures can impact vehicle performance, leading to unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. At Get Drivers Ed, we emphasize the importance of being prepared for all driving conditions, including extreme weather like the summer heat. Understanding how hot weather affects your car and knowing how to mitigate those effects will help keep you safe on the road and extend the life of your vehicle.
In this blog, we'll explore how high temperatures can affect different components of your car and provide practical tips to keep your vehicle running smoothly during the hottest months of the year.
1. How Heat Affects Your Car’s Battery
Battery Overheating and Decreased Lifespan
While cold weather is often blamed for dead batteries, extreme heat can be just as damaging—if not more so. High temperatures cause the fluid inside your car’s battery to evaporate more quickly, leading to reduced battery power and a shorter overall lifespan. As the battery overheats, internal components can be damaged, which may result in the need for a premature replacement.
If your car battery is already weak or nearing the end of its life, the summer heat could push it over the edge. It’s crucial to have your battery tested before the summer months to ensure it’s in good condition.
At Get Drivers Ed, we teach new drivers to be aware of their car’s maintenance needs, including monitoring their battery health. Proper battery care is especially important in extreme temperatures.
Preventive Measures for Battery Health
Regularly Inspect the Battery: Look for signs of corrosion, especially around the terminals, and clean any buildup.
Test the Battery: Many auto repair shops and retailers offer free battery testing, which can help you determine if it’s time for a replacement.
Park in the Shade: Parking in a shaded area or using a car cover can help protect the battery from excessive heat.
2. Tire Pressure and the Summer Heat
How Heat Increases Tire Pressure
Did you know that high temperatures can cause your tire pressure to increase? For every 10-degree Fahrenheit rise in temperature, your tires gain about one pound per square inch (PSI) of pressure. Over-inflated tires are more susceptible to blowouts, especially during long highway drives.
On the other hand, if your tires are under-inflated, they can overheat more quickly, leading to uneven tread wear or even a dangerous blowout. At Get Drivers Ed, we always remind drivers to check their tire pressure regularly, especially when transitioning between seasons.
Maintaining Proper Tire Pressure
Check Tire Pressure Regularly: Invest in a tire pressure gauge and check your tire pressure at least once a month during the summer. Refer to your car’s manual for the recommended PSI.
Inspect Tire Condition: Check the tread on your tires for any signs of wear or damage, and make sure the tires are in good condition before embarking on long trips.
Avoid Overloading: Carrying too much weight in your car can exacerbate the stress on your tires, especially in hot weather.
3. Overheating Engines: A Common Summer Problem
Why Engines Overheat in Hot Weather
Your car’s engine works harder in the summer heat, and without proper cooling, it can easily overheat. The engine’s cooling system relies on coolant to regulate temperature, but if coolant levels are low or there’s an issue with the radiator, the engine can become dangerously hot. Overheating can cause significant engine damage, leading to costly repairs or even engine failure.
The combination of hot weather and stop-and-go traffic is particularly tough on engines. If you notice your temperature gauge rising or see steam coming from under the hood, it’s time to pull over and let your engine cool down.
Preventing Engine Overheating
Check Coolant Levels: Make sure your car has enough coolant and that there are no leaks in the system. It’s a good idea to flush and replace the coolant every two years.
Inspect Hoses and Belts: The cooling system relies on various hoses and belts to function properly. Check for any signs of cracking or wear and replace damaged parts.
Turn Off the A/C in Emergencies: If your engine is overheating, turning off the air conditioning can reduce the strain on the engine and help bring the temperature down.
At Get Drivers Ed, we teach drivers to monitor their vehicle’s temperature gauge regularly and know the warning signs of an overheating engine.
4. Brake Performance in the Heat
The Impact of Heat on Brakes
Brakes can also be affected by summer temperatures. When the weather is hot, your brakes naturally become hotter as you use them. This can lead to brake fade, a condition where the brakes become less effective due to excessive heat buildup. The brake pads and rotors may wear down faster in extreme heat, especially if you’re driving in hilly areas or in heavy traffic where frequent braking is necessary.
Maintaining Your Brakes in Hot Weather
Check Brake Fluid: Brake fluid can absorb moisture over time, reducing its efficiency. Make sure your brake fluid is topped off and hasn’t absorbed too much water.
Inspect Brake Pads and Rotors: Before the summer months, have your brakes inspected for wear and tear. Replace brake pads that are worn down and ensure your rotors are in good condition.
Avoid Hard Braking: Try to brake gently and avoid sudden, aggressive stops whenever possible to prevent excessive heat buildup.
5. Air Conditioning: More Than Just Comfort
How Heat Affects Your A/C System
Your air conditioning system is essential during the summer, but it also works harder in extreme heat. The A/C system pulls moisture out of the air and cools it down, but during the hottest days, it can struggle to keep up with demand. Low refrigerant levels or clogged filters can reduce the efficiency of the system, leaving you with hot air blowing through the vents.
At Get Drivers Ed, we emphasize that while A/C is a comfort feature, it can also be a safety feature. Staying cool prevents driver fatigue and helps you remain alert behind the wheel.
Maintaining Your A/C System
Recharge the Refrigerant: If your A/C isn’t as cold as it should be, it may need a refrigerant recharge. This should be done by a professional mechanic.
Replace the Cabin Air Filter: A clogged cabin air filter can restrict airflow, making it harder for your A/C system to cool the car efficiently.
Inspect Belts and Hoses: The A/C system relies on various belts and hoses, which should be checked for cracks or damage, especially during the summer.
Conclusion: Keep Your Car Cool with Get Drivers Ed
The summer heat can take a serious toll on your car, from overheating engines to inflated tires and diminished battery life. By staying proactive and regularly maintaining your vehicle, you can avoid many of the common issues associated with hot weather driving. At Get Drivers Ed, we believe that understanding your car’s needs is crucial for staying safe and avoiding costly repairs, especially during extreme weather conditions.
If you’re looking to become a more knowledgeable and responsible driver, enroll in our online driver education courses today. We cover essential vehicle maintenance tips, safe driving practices, and much more to help you drive confidently and safely in all seasons.
Make sure your car is ready to handle the summer heat—Get Drivers Ed is here to help!
