Getting Your Car Ready for Summer: Six Simple Checks

Getting a car ready for summer comes down to six checks: tyres, coolant, air conditioning, battery, fluids and bodywork. Most take a few minutes on the driveway, and doing them before a long trip makes a breakdown far less likely.

Why do tyres need checking before summer?

Hot roads, full boots and long motorway runs all put extra load on tyres. Check the pressures when the tyres are cold, using the figures in your handbook or on the sticker inside the driver's door. Many cars list a higher pressure for a fully loaded car.

Look at the tread too. The legal minimum for cars is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre, but grip in the wet drops well before that. Check the sidewalls for cuts and bulges, and do not forget the spare or the repair kit.

How do I check the cooling system?

With the engine cold, check that the coolant sits between the minimum and maximum marks on the expansion tank. Never open the cap on a hot engine. If the level keeps dropping, or you notice a sweet smell or puddles under the car, have it looked at, as a small leak can turn into overheating on a hot day.

Why has my air conditioning stopped blowing cold?

Air conditioning slowly loses refrigerant over time, so a system that feels weak often needs a re-gas. A musty smell usually points to a tired cabin filter. Running the air conditioning for a few minutes every week, even in winter, helps keep the seals in good condition.

Can hot weather affect the car battery?

Yes. Heat speeds up the chemical wear inside a battery, and many batteries that fail in winter were weakened in summer. If yours is more than four or five years old or the engine is slow to turn over, have it tested. Our guide to car batteries explains the warning signs.

Which fluids should I check?

• Engine oil: check the dipstick or the dashboard reading on a level surface and top up with the grade in your handbook.

• Screen wash: summer means flies and dust, so keep it topped up and check the wiper blades clear the screen cleanly.

• Brake fluid: it should sit between the marks. A falling level needs checking by a technician.

Does the sun damage paintwork?

Over time, strong sun and bird droppings can mark paint. Wash the car regularly, remove droppings and tree sap promptly, and a coat of wax or sealant adds a layer of protection. Our guide to keeping your car looking new has more tips.

Common questions

Should I get my car serviced before a summer holiday?

If a service is due in the next month or two, it makes sense to have it done before a long trip. A technician can spot worn brakes, tyres or belts while there is still time to fix them.

Is it safe to leave children or pets in a parked car?

No. The inside of a parked car heats up very quickly, even with a window open. Never leave children or animals in a car on a warm day.

What should I carry for a long summer drive?

Water, sun shades for rear windows, a phone charger, a first aid kit and your breakdown cover details.

Book a summer check in Barnsley

Our service centre in Barnsley, South Yorkshire can check your tyres, battery, air conditioning and fluids before you set off. Our labour rate is £80 per hour plus VAT, and menu prices are VAT-inclusive. Call our service centre on 01226 574321.

Updated October 2026.