Britain’s latest heatwave is expected to put renewed pressure on motorists and recovery services, with the RAC warning that breakdown call-outs could rise sharply as temperatures climb.
The breakdown provider said it expects incidents to exceed levels seen during June last year by more than 20 per cent, raising the prospect of longer waits for drivers needing roadside assistance.
The RAC has advised motorists whose vehicles lack effective air-conditioning to consider delaying non-essential journeys during the hottest conditions, warning that extreme heat can place additional strain on vehicles.
High temperatures can increase the risk of common failures including battery problems, overheating engines, tyre damage and cooling system faults, leaving vulnerable vehicles more likely to break down during long journeys.
The warning comes as millions of drivers prepare to travel during a period of unusually hot weather, increasing demand on already stretched recovery networks.
RAC experts urged motorists to carry out basic checks before setting off, including checking coolant levels, tyre condition and ensuring vehicles are properly maintained.
The organisation warned that drivers caught out by a breakdown in extreme heat could face significantly longer rescue times as demand rises across the country.
For motorists, the message is simple: preparation could make the difference between completing a journey and being stranded at the roadside during the hottest days of the year.
With temperatures placing additional pressure on both vehicles and recovery services, breakdown firms are preparing for one of their busiest periods of the summer.
RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis said: “Red extreme heat warnings are rare and we urge everyone to take them seriously this week. Drivers whose vehicles don’t have effective air conditioning should strongly consider postponing any non-essential car journeys until the Met Office’s weather warnings are lifted and temperatures drop. If this isn’t possible, our best advice is to travel during cooler times of day. This is especially important for anyone travelling with vulnerable people, including young children and older adults, who are at greater risk from the intense heat. We’d also remind motorists never to leave pets inside a hot vehicle, as doing so can quickly become fatal.
“This week could end up being a record-breaking one for June – not just because of the heat, but also for the number of drivers breaking down. Our last busiest June was three years ago, but there’s every chance that could be eclipsed this week as temperatures soar. Today, we expect breakdown volumes to be around 20% higher than what’s normal for a Monday in late June.
“We ask anyone who breaks down to be patient while breakdown providers prioritise the most urgent roadside jobs. The heatwave will affect services right across the UK and while all patrols will be working incredibly hard to assist drivers, longer waits are more likely. Staying safe in the heat is paramount, so we strongly recommend packing an emergency breakdown kit (see below) and waiting in the shade wherever possible.
“There are simple steps motorists can take to reduce the risk of a breakdown in the first place, however. It begins with a few basic checks under the bonnet before setting out. Make sure oil levels are sufficient and top up if needed. Coolant should also sit between the ‘min’ and ‘max’ markers – if it isn’t, top it up yourself when the engine is cold and have it inspected by an RAC mobile mechanic or reputable garage as soon as possible.
“At these kinds of temperatures, road surfaces will soften, with darker patches of tarmac often the clearest indicator. Drivers may therefore see councils deploying gritting vehicles – a sight normally reserved for the winter – as applying a fine layer of granite dust can help maintain traction on melting roads. Motorists also shouldn’t be concerned if they spot water beneath their vehicle, as this is typically just condensation from the air conditioning system.
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