As temperatures in New Zealand rise, cars can become vulnerable to the summer heat, with interior temperatures soaring to a staggering 70°C within minutes.
From battery failures to tyre blowouts, overheating can result in unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs.
Here’s a look at some expert tips to prevent these issues and keep your car running smoothly.
1. Protect rubber seals with talcum powder
The scorching heat can wreak havoc on your car’s rubber door seals, causing them to stick or even melt. A simple and effective solution is to dust talcum powder on the seals. This not only protects the rubber from the harsh summer sun but also ensures that your doors remain easy to open, even on the hottest days.
2. Condition windshield wipers with rubbing alcohol
Summer heat can quickly dry out windshield wipers, reducing their lifespan. Instead of replacing them, you can wipe the blades with rubbing alcohol. This keeps the rubber flexible and ensures your wipers stay efficient during extreme heat. It’s a quick, cost-effective way to extend their life and improve visibility.
3. Apply UV protection to headlights
The intense UV rays in New Zealand can cause headlights to turn yellow or fog over time, reducing their brightness.
Applying a UV-blocking clear coat, similar to what’s used on sunglasses, can prevent this. Keeping your headlights clear helps avoid dangerous light diffusion during night drives, ensuring better safety.
4. Use ice packs to cool small electronics
A clever trick for protecting your electronics is to place an insulated ice pack in the glove box. This can help cool down devices like your phone or dash cam on sweltering days, preventing overheating while parked or on the go.
It’s a small step that can save your gadgets during peak summer heat.
5. Inspect tyres for heat damage
High temperatures increase tyre pressure, leading to dangerous heat bubbles. It’s essential to regularly check your tyres for bulges and monitor their pressure, especially after long drives on sun-heated roads.
Lowering the pressure slightly can help combat the effects of extreme heat and prevent tyre blowouts.
6. Flush your radiator and use high-boiling point coolant
To prevent engine overheating, flush your radiator and refill it with high-boiling-point coolant. This keeps the engine cool and running smoothly, especially during long trips.
Summer driving puts added strain on the engine, and proper coolant maintenance can reduce the risk of breakdowns.
7. Ensure your air conditioning is summer-ready
A clean cabin filter is vital for your air conditioner’s performance, especially in summer when dust and particles can block airflow. Checking and replacing the filter as necessary ensures that your AC runs at full capacity, keeping you cool during hot days on the road.
By following these simple yet effective tips, you can prevent the summer heat from turning your vehicle into a breakdown waiting to happen. Staying on top of maintenance is crucial, whether you own your vehicle or manage it through a lease.
For more insights on vehicle leasing and maintenance, Novated Lease Australia can help you find what you need.