How to Prepare Your Car for Hot Weather and Long Journeys

Piddle Garage & Recovery
May 16
3 min read

Piddle Garage – Car Maintenance, Recovery & Roadside Assistance in Dorset

When summer arrives, it brings sunshine, holidays, and long road trips. But high temperatures can take a serious toll on your vehicle. Whether you're planning a coastal drive, a countryside getaway, or just navigating local roads during a heatwave, it’s essential to ensure your car is fully prepared for hot weather and long journeys.

At Piddle Garage, we specialise in car servicing, summer vehicle checks, and 24/7 recovery services. Here’s our expert advice on how to keep your vehicle safe and running smoothly this summer—and what to do if you find yourself stuck on the roadside.

✅ Why Prepare Your Car for Hot Weather?

Extreme heat can lead to a range of vehicle problems, including engine overheating, battery failure, and tyre blowouts. Proper summer car maintenance reduces the risk of breakdowns, improves fuel efficiency, and ensures a safe and comfortable journey.

🔧 1. Inspect and Maintain Your Cooling System

Your car’s cooling system plays a critical role in preventing engine overheating. In hot weather, your engine works harder—especially during long drives or while stuck in traffic.

Checklist:

Check coolant levels and top up if needed
Inspect hoses for cracks or leaks
Ensure the radiator fan is working correctly

💡 Book a cooling system check at Piddle Garage for peace of mind before you travel.

🚗 2. Check Tyre Pressure and Condition

Under-inflated or worn tyres are dangerous in high temperatures and during long-distance driving. Heat causes air in your tyres to expand, increasing the risk of a blowout.

Checklist:

Inspect tread depth (minimum 1.6mm legally; 3mm recommended for safety)
Check tyre pressure (including the spare)
Look for signs of wear, cracks, or bulging

We offer tyre inspections, replacements, and mobile tyre fitting at your convenience.

❄️ 3. Test Your Air Conditioning System

A working air conditioning system keeps you cool and focused while driving. If it’s blowing warm air or taking too long to cool, it might need a recharge or service.

Visit us for a quick A/C inspection and recharge to stay comfortable this summer.

🔋 4. Check Your Battery Health

Hot temperatures can cause battery fluid to evaporate, leading to internal damage and reduced battery life. If your battery is older than 3 years, it’s worth testing it before heading off.

We offer battery testing and replacements at Piddle Garage, ensuring your vehicle starts every time.

🛢️ 5. Top Up Engine Oil and Other Fluids

Keeping your engine and systems well-lubricated is key in hot weather.

Checklist:

Engine oil
Brake fluid
Power steering fluid
Windscreen washer fluid

Don’t wait until you’re on the road—let us check and top them up before you leave.

🧰 6. Pack a Summer Road Trip Emergency Kit

Breakdowns can happen even with good preparation. Carry a basic car emergency kit including:

Bottled water
Warning triangle and hi-vis jacket
Phone charger or power bank
Torch
First aid kit
Jump leads
Spare tyre or puncture repair kit

🛠️ Vehicle Breakdowns Happen – We're Here to Help

Even with the best preparation, things can still go wrong. That’s why Piddle Garage offers reliable roadside assistance and vehicle recovery services across Dorset and surrounding areas.

Our recovery services include:

24/7 vehicle breakdown recovery
Roadside diagnostics and repairs
Flat battery jump starts
Overheating and fluid top-ups
Tyre changes and mobile support

📞 Save our number now: 01305 542067

✅ Book a Summer Vehicle Check at Piddle Garage

Before your next road trip or summer drive, book a pre-journey car check with our experienced team. We’ll inspect all key components to make sure your vehicle is roadworthy, safe, and ready for any adventure.