Summer's here, and with it comes sunshine, holidays, and road trips! But hot weather can also bring challenges for drivers. Here at Hilton Car Supermarket, we want to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable journey, so we've compiled some essential tips for driving in hot conditions.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can significantly impact concentration and reaction times behind the wheel. Pack plenty of water for everyone in the car, and take regular breaks to rehydrate, especially on long journeys. Avoid sugary drinks and opt for water or diluted squash.

Shade for Pets & Passengers

Direct sunlight can be uncomfortable and dangerous, especially for young children and pets. Use sunshades for the windows to keep the interior cool and protect passengers from UV rays. Remember, never leave pets or children unattended in a parked car, no matter the weather.

Driving With Glare

The sun's glare can make it difficult to see the road ahead. Keep a good pair of sunglasses in the car, and consider a sun visor extension for extra protection. Ensure your windscreen is clean and free of chips or scratches that can magnify glare.

Driving with Hay Fever

Hay fever can be intensified by spending long periods in a car. Consider using an air purifier to remove pollen from the air, and keep an antihistamine medication on hand if necessary.

Use a Windscreen Shield

Parking in direct sunlight can turn your car into an oven. Using a windscreen shield reflects sunlight and keeps the interior significantly cooler. This makes getting back into the car much more comfortable and reduces the strain on your air conditioning system.

Check Tyre Pressure

Hot weather can cause tyre pressures to fluctuate. Underinflated tyres can lead to blowouts, so check your tyre pressures regularly, referring to the manufacturer's recommendations in your car handbook. Don't forget to check the spare tyre too!

Keep Your Car Cool

Park in shaded areas whenever possible. If you have a remote start, use it to cool down the car before you get in. Opening the windows for a few moments before setting off allows hot air to escape before you crank up the air conditioning.

What To Do if Your Car Overheats

If your car overheats, pull over safely as soon as possible. Turn off the engine and switch on your hazard lights. Let the car cool down completely before checking the coolant level. Do not add cold water to a hot engine. If you're unsure about the cause of the overheating, call for roadside assistance.

What To Do if You Breakdown

A breakdown in hot weather can be unpleasant. If you do breakdown, try to pull over to a safe location, out of direct sunlight if possible. Turn on your hazard lights, raise the bonnet (once the engine has cooled down) and call for assistance.

Check Oil & Coolant

Before any long journey, ensure your engine oil and coolant levels are topped up to the manufacturer's recommendations. These fluids play a vital role in keeping your engine cool, and running low can lead to overheating.

Check Fuel Levels Before Setting Off

Running out of fuel in hot weather can be a stressful situation. Avoid the hassle by checking your fuel gauge before you set off and consider filling up more regularly in hot weather, as air conditioning use can affect fuel economy.

Check the Air Conditioning System

Have your air conditioning system serviced regularly to ensure it's working efficiently. A malfunctioning air conditioning system can leave you hot and bothered on a summer journey.

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and comfortable driving experience for yourself and your passengers, even in the hottest weather. For further advice or to get your car summer-ready, visit us at Hilton Car Supermarket today!