Summer Car Breakdown Prevention: Quick Safety Checklist
The last thing you want on your summer vacation to the North Coast or down South is for your car to breakdown…
Follow these simple car maintenance tips to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly all summer long:
Check Your Engine Coolant Levels
You need to check your coolant fluid level is between the maximum and minimum marks on the tank at least once a week when the engine is cold. If the coolant level has dropped, make sure that you get it checked out at your local garage because ordinarily, coolant levels should remain at the same level between services.
Test Your Car Battery
Batteries are one of the most common causes of vehicle breakdowns. Make sure that your battery is in full working order with a battery test, which will be done for free in many garages.
Check Your Brakes Before Long Journeys
Especially if you are heading on a long journey, call around your car mechanic and ask them to check your brake pads, discs and fluid levels so as to ensure you won’t incur any problems when you are miles away from home.
Monitor Your Oil Levels
Check that your car’s oil levels are between the maximum and the minimum on your dipstick in order to avoid causing potentially irreparable damage. This should ideally be checked at least once a week.
Inspect Your Tyres for Wear and Tear
Punctures can be common in the summer. High temperatures often aggravate damage which may already be there. It is important to monitor your tyre pressures; checking them every week to ensure that they comply with the manufacturer’s stated guidelines. These can be found either in your vehicle handbook or on the inside of the driver’s door.
Get Breakdown Cover today!
Granite Breakdown a division of CRASH Services offer a fully inclusive breakdown service to over 20,000 Northern Ireland customers for Just £80 per year. Get yours today!
Granite Breakdown covers you across Northern Ireland and Ireland so you’re covered! Plus they also have an additional GB benefit cover encase you travel to the mainland UK.
How CRASH Services Can Help You After A Car Crash or Accident
At CRASH Services, we specialise in helping drivers in Belfast, Newry, Derry~Londonderry and across Northern Ireland get back on the road quickly.
After an accident, our expert team will take care of:
- vehicle recovery,
- collision investigation,
- organising repairs,
- providing a replacement vehicle,
- liaising with insurance companies and
- legal and medical
And we do it all, at no cost to the not-at-fault driver.
Our service is free as we recover the costs from the third-party insurers.
Why Choose CRASH Services?
- Established in 1996
- Trusted by Hundreds of Thousands Local Northern Ireland Motorists
- No Cost to You, Costs Recovered from Insurers
- Complete Accident Management from Recovery to Repairs
- 99% Customer Recommendation Rate
Our Mission is Simple:
“To act with care for those involved in road traffic accidents.”
Need Help After an Accident in Belfast, Newry, Derry~Londonderry or anywhere across Northern Ireland?
Call us today on 028 9066 0244 or Request a Callback Today
CRASH Services, take care of everything, at no cost to you!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What causes most car breakdowns during the summer?
Some of the most common causes of summer breakdowns include battery failure, overheating engines, low coolant levels, tyre problems, and lack of regular vehicle maintenance. Hot weather can put additional strain on your vehicle, especially during long journeys.
- How often should I check my coolant level in summer?
It’s a good idea to check your coolant level at least once a week when the engine is cold. If you notice the level dropping between checks, have the cooling system inspected by a qualified mechanic.
- Can high temperatures affect my car battery?
Yes. Extreme heat can reduce battery performance and shorten its lifespan. If your battery is more than a few years old or you’ve noticed slow starting, consider having it tested before a long trip.
- Why are tyre checks especially important during hot weather?
Higher temperatures can increase tyre pressure and worsen existing tyre damage. Regularly checking tyre pressure, tread depth, and overall condition can help reduce the risk of punctures and blowouts.
- How often should I check my engine oil?
You should check your oil regularly, particularly before long journeys. Low oil levels can lead to increased engine wear, overheating, and potentially costly mechanical damage.
