SUMMER DRIVING ADVICE

With summer just around the corner and the start of the holiday season with hopefully higher temperatures, it also marks the start of increased stress levels driving through warmer weather and extra demands on your car – so here's our advice to help with the bigger challenges of summer driving.

Wet or lost key fobs

It's easy to lose your car keys in the sand, on a rural walk, or even ruin your remote control with water by accidentally taking the fob for a swim. Keep your keys safe and dry and check your handbook – on most cars, there's an alternative way to open the doors that you can use if the remote stopped working.

Punctures

If your tyres are already damaged or they're at the wrong pressure, the higher temperatures of summer can increase the risk of a blowout. Make sure you check tyres regularly, for condition and pressures, and increase pressures to suit extra loads, as advised in your handbook. Check caravan tyres too, and replace those that show any signs of cracking in the sidewall or tread grooves, it is also good practice to make sure you have a spare wheel, wheel brace and jack for your caravan.

Overheating

High temperatures can aggravate cooling system problems too. It’s important to check the coolant and cooling system regularly to avoid overheating.

Glare

Dazzle from the sun causes lots of accidents but you can reduce the effect by keeping your windscreen nice and clean, and by replacing worn or damaged windscreen wipers. It pays to keep a clean pair of sunglasses in your car year-round but avoid lenses that darken in strong sunlight.

Loose chippings

Roads repaired with tar and loose chippings are a common sight in the summer, but they can cause cracked headlamps and windscreens, and damage paintwork if you’re not careful. Stick to any temporary speed limit that’s been put in place and keep your distance from the car in front.