Summer motoring tips

The onset of summer is usually something we look forward to, but while the warmer temperature might be something we enjoy, it's not always such a happy time for our car.

Higher summer temperatures combined with traditionally longer travelling distances and increased vehicle loads; cause much greater stress on some of the major systems of our car.

The cooling system, braking system, electrical system, air-conditioning, automatic transmission and tyres are all operating under much higher stresses.

For example, high ambient temperatures mean that the engine cooling system has to work under much greater stress to keep the engine running within its safe operating temperature range.

We've all seen cars sitting on the side of the road as soon as the hot weather starts with their bonnet up and steam pouring out due to overheating not to mention the serious engine damage that usually results.

Listed below are a number of preventative maintenance checks that will reduce the stress on your car and hopefully make summer motoring an enjoyable and safe event.

For specific advice relating to your particular vehicle please contact our friendly service advisors on

1800 643 091 or email us and they will be only to happy to assist .
 
 

Cooling system fitness check

Have the radiator pressure cap tested.

Low pressure due to a faulty cap can cause the coolant to boil resulting in engine overheating.

Clean and flush the radiator and cooling system and replace the engine coolant.Over time cooling systems build up scaly deposits that partially block the radiator internally reducing the cooling system effectiveness.

Clean any grass and insects from the external cooling fins of the radiator, and repair any damaged fins.

Over time grass and insect can partially clog the radiator fins, which in turn reduces the airflow through the radiator. This results in reduced engine cooling and higher running temperatures.

Fan Belts, hoses and clamps should also be checked to avoid stress failure due to deterioration.
CAUTION: NEVER remove the radiator cap from a hot engine. Severe burns to face, hands and arms can result.

Braking system check

Check Brake Pads and Linings for wear

During winter abrasive road grime and water can cause the brakes to wear at a slightly higher rate.

If the vehicle has not had a change of brake fluid within the last 40,000km or 24 months (or the period nominated by your vehicles manufacturer), drain and flush brake system and replace the brake fluid.

Over time and particularly in humid climates brake fluid absorbs moisture out of the air. Under heavy braking and/or high operating temperatures the moisture boils out of the system severely reducing braking effectiveness.

 
Electrical system

Test battery for operating capacity.

Ensure that all Battery terminals are free of corrosion and tight.

In summer batteries usually carry heavier electrical loads due to air-conditioning and electric engine cooling fans etc. operating for longer periods.

Loose or corroded terminals reduce the charging effectiveness and the ability of the battery to provide sufficient current flow when starting.

In hot weather, faulty batteries have a habit of totally failing without warning. This can leave you stranded and unable to start the car.

Tyres

Check tyres for visible damage to the casing or uneven tread wear

Always maintain correct tyre pressure (check every 2 weeks)

Higher operating temperatures along with the usually increased passenger loads cause heat build-up in the tyres. This heat can cause a damaged tyre to blowout and suddenly deflate with devastating consequences.

Under-inflation causes rapid heat build-up, which can cause the tyre to dangerously self-destruct.

Always check tyre pressures when they are COLD; NEVER let air out of a warm tyre to adjust the pressure.

Air-conditioning system

Check Air-conditioning drive belt for correct tension.

Check Pollen Filter (where fitted) replace if blocked.

Check for correct cooling operation.

If an air-conditioner is not run on a regular basis during the off seasons it can slowly lose some of its refrigerant gas. This causes it to operate inefficiently or not at all.

If the A/C intake pollen filter is blocked it will reduce the effectiveness of the air-con operation.

Air-conditioning not only helps cool the car but has also been shown to reduce driver and passenger fatigue. Research has also shown that a fatigued driver has a functioning capacity similar to a person with a blood alcohol reading of .05.

 Automatic transmission

Check Auto-Transmission fluid level and cleanliness.

Check external A/T oil-cooler (if fitted) for blocked damaged fins.

If the automatic transmission fluid is discoloured it may need to be replaced and the transmission flushed clean to remove contaminant particles.

High temperatures and loads vastly increase the strain on the transmission internals.

If an external transmission oil cooler is fitted, check the fins for damage or blockage (similar to radiator inspection).

If heavy / long distance towing is intended it may be advisable to consider having an external A/T oil cooler fitted (ask a specialist).

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