Summer in the UK is usually quite mild, but when the temperature does rise, it can catch people out. Add in longer journeys, traffic and the odd heatwave, and your car can end up under more strain than you might expect.

A lot of summer breakdowns are actually preventable. A few basic checks now and then can save you a lot of hassle later on. If you use your vehicle for work, it is also worth having Business Vehicle Breakdown Cover in place, just in case.

Tyre blowouts
Tyres tend to suffer more in hot weather. As the air temperature goes up, so does the pressure inside the tyre. If the tyres are already worn or not inflated properly, the chances of a blowout increase, especially on faster roads like motorways.

What you can do:

• Check your tyre pressure regularly, particularly before longer trips
• Keep an eye on tread depth and look for any visible damage
• Try not to overload the vehicle

It only takes a few minutes to check, but it can make a big difference.

Engine overheating
Overheating is another issue that crops up more often in summer. It is more likely if you are stuck in traffic or driving for long periods. In many cases, it comes down to low coolant, a cooling system fault, or a radiator that is not working as it should.

Simple ways to reduce the risk:

• Check coolant levels from time to time
• Make sure the radiator is clear and working properly
• Take it easy in stop-start traffic where possible

If your vehicle is important for your day-to-day work, Business Car Breakdown Cover can help you get back on the road without too much disruption.

Air conditioning problems
Air conditioning always seems to stop working when you need it most. In hot weather, systems are under more pressure, especially if the refrigerant level is low or there is a small leak somewhere.

It is not usually a major fault, but it can make journeys pretty uncomfortable.

To keep it working:

• Get it serviced now and then
• Run it occasionally during colder months so it does not sit unused for too long

Fuel-related issues
Fuel systems can also be affected by heat, particularly in older vehicles. You might notice reduced performance, or in some cases, the car may struggle to run properly.

A few practical tips:

• Try to keep the tank at least half full on longer journeys
• Avoid leaving the car in direct sunlight for hours if you can
• Use fuel stations you trust

Final thoughts
Driving in summer does not usually cause major problems, but it does increase the chances of a few common issues. Most of them are fairly easy to avoid with a bit of basic maintenance.

If you rely on your vehicle regularly, whether for personal use or work, having Commercial Breakdown Cover can give you some extra peace of mind if something does go wrong.