Before you hit the road, a few smart checks and simple precautions can make all the difference to your safety and comfort, and for your car’s performance in hot weather.
The £1,350 heatwave mistake that could crack your windscreen
Mike explains, “Warm weather is the perfect excuse for many motorists to wash their car but if it’s been sitting in direct sunshine for hours, avoid pouring cold water straight onto the windscreen. The sudden change in temperature can cause thermal shock, which increases the chance of cracks in the glass.
If you can, wash your car in the morning or the evening when it’s cooler. It’s a simple change that could save you a costly trip to have your windscreen replaced.”
According to Checkatrade, replacing your windscreen can cost anything from an average of £260 to an average of £1,350, depending on the make and model of your car.
A dirty windscreen could cost drivers £1,000 in this week’s heatwave
Mike warns: “It’s easy to underestimate how much a dirty windscreen affects your vision until you’re driving straight into bright sunshine. Dust, smears and insect marks scatter the sunlight across the glass, creating glare that reduces visibility just when you need it most.”
“A clean windscreen is a job that takes only a couple of minutes before you set off but can make all the difference when the sun is low or particularly intense. Top up your screen wash to clear bugs and grime safely on longer journeys.
A dirty windscreen can obstruct a driver’s view, and if it prevents them from seeing the road clearly, they could be fined up to £1,000 and given three penalty points.”
A £15 spray could help protect your car from £150 interior repair bills
Over time, the sun’s UV rays can cause dashboards, steering wheels and leather seats to fade and crack. A £15 UV protectant spray and a £10 windscreen sunshade could save sun damage to dashboards and leather seats and reduce the risk of costly damage. According to Checkatrade, repairing a leather car seat can cost between £50 and £150.
Mike says, “Many people pay attention to protecting the exterior of their car in hot weather, but the interior can suffer just as much damage. Over time, strong UV rays can lead to fading and the cracking of dashboards, steering wheels and leather seats. But a simple UV protectant spray and a windscreen sunshade are two inexpensive ways that can help protect your interior and your car’s resale value.”
Don’t let the heat wear out your tyres sooner than it should
Hot weather can cause tyre pressures to change, putting extra strain on tyres during long journeys. That’s why experts recommend checking tyre pressures before setting off, ideally when the tyres are cold. According to Checkatrade, replacement tyres cost around £110 each, meaning a new set could cost drivers around £440.
Mike explains, “Hot weather can put extra strain on car tyres. As temperatures rise, tyre pressures can change, and if your tyres are already underinflated or worn, the added heat from the road can increase the risk of excessive wear or, in serious cases, a blowout. Check your tyre pressure when your tyres are cold and make sure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.”
With further spells of hot weather expected this summer, taking just a few minutes to check your vehicle before setting off could help motorists avoid costly repairs, fines and unnecessary breakdowns.
Mike concludes: “Summer driving in the UK presents new challenges that many aren’t prepared for. But with proper preparation, vigilance and a few simple hacks, you can navigate heatwaves safely and comfortably.
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