Drivers warned over little-known check that could stop engine from damage in summer

Nicola Roy

24 June 2024 at 5:59 am·2-min read

Driving car — -Credit: (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Drivers across the UK have been urged to take note of one little-known hack that could potentially save your engine from overheating this summer - especially when it comes to long journeys.

The warmer months are the perfect time to head off on a staycation, and if you are driving - whether that's somewhere in the UK or further afield- there are always some vital checks that you should do before setting off.

Keeping on top of your car maintenance is essential all year round, but there are certain issues that are more likely to crop up during the summer - and one of the main ones is to do with your engine.

The heat of the warmer months means this vital part of your car is more at risk of overheating, which can be a very costly and irritating problem to deal with. According to consumer experts at Which?, one thing you should always do before setting off is have a look at your coolant levels.

If it needs topped up, it's important to remember that you still need to use antifreeze even in the summer. Which? car expert Daljinder Nagra said: "If there's not the correct dilution of antifreeze in your car's coolant tank, it could cause engine damage when the weather starts to turn."

You should use a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze to do this, but never try to unscrew the coolant tank's lid if you have just finished driving. This pressure can cause hot water to spray all over you, so instead, wait for the engine to cool fully before unscrewing the lid slowly.

Similarly, you should also always make sure to check that your air conditioning is working before setting off in the car during summer - especially if you haven't used it in a while.

Air-con units that haven’t been used in a while can develop mould or suffer cracked seals, resulting in an unpleasant musty smell or an ineffective system. Because of this, it’s best to use your air-con often throughout the year and test it thoroughly well in advance of a long journey.

If it's not working as well as it should, get it checked by your local garage. It might just need a quick re-gas - which usually costs around £50-£100.

If you want ideas and inspiration to plan your next UK adventure plus selected offers and competitions, sign up for our 2Chill weekly newsletter here

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