There are lots of sensible precautions drivers take to protect themselves and their passengers when temperatures are soaring. But what about the vehicle itself? Here are some key checks to make to help protect your car and avoid breakdowns or other problems…
The battery
Battery fluid evaporates more quickly in hot weather, so check for corrosion on connections and terminals. Cleaning this helps ensure a secure connection. This is important because making sure your battery is securely fitted helps prevent damaging vibrations.
The tyres
Checking that your tyres are not under-inflated is another important action to take. If they are, this can lead to overheating on hot road surfaces and potentially catastrophic blowouts. At the same time, it’s wise to check tread wear and depths to ensure they are acceptable.
Vital fluids
Just like those people inside the vehicle, sufficient fluids are vital for the car itself. The high temperatures we often have to endure can also lead to swift evaporation of motor oil, brake fluid, transmission and power steering fluids. It’s wise to ensure that each is well-filled.
Engine cooling and air conditioning systems
Both of these systems come under increased pressure to perform when the temperatures soar. Rubber parts can deteriorate, and drive belts suffer costly damage. Refrigerant levels need to be checked to ensure that the air conditioning delivers the necessary performance.
But accidents still happen!
Sadly, keeping your car in excellent condition does not protect you from poor driving by others. However, if you are the victim of an accident that was not your fault, help is at hand. Under Australian Law, drivers in such circumstances are entitled to an accident replacement courtesy car. This helps keep you on the road while your own car is in the repair shop.
However, it’s important to note that the replacement car should also be similar in size to your own. Also, we can organise delivery and pick up from that repair shop, if that makes life easier at such a traumatic time.
That’s why it pays to make sure you keep our phone number with you at all times. As soon as it’s safe to do so, contact our Not My Fault team on 1800699034 and set us to work on your behalf.
