If in our previous post we suggested magnificent routes for road trips this unusual summer, now we're writing a series of tips to increase road safety , so nothing spoils your vacation. During the summer the engine and the rest of the mechanical components suffer more due to the heat .
This, combined with the aging of the Spanish vehicle fleet and the lack of vehicle maintenance, means that the number of roadside breakdowns increases every summer, with problems associated with batteries, tires, engines, and alternators being the most common.
Wouldn't it be a real pain to suffer one of these breakdowns while on vacation? At Help Flash, we offer a series of recommendations that will help you avoid them and also help you drive more efficiently and maintain your vehicles at their best.
Before using the car
Perform a quick checkup . Although many components are already inspected by a professional during the manufacturer's scheduled maintenance, it doesn't hurt to check some key vehicle components:
Levels (oil, coolant, windshield washer fluid, etc.)
It's important to remember that filters and fluids should be changed at least once a year , especially in vehicles over 10 years old. And of course, don't forget to check the engine oil , always with the engine cold and on a level surface.
The tires
Travel safety depends on tires in good condition to ensure good grip and proper braking distance . It's a good idea to check tire pressure and adjust it to the optimal tire pressure for your vehicle and its maintenance status. Remember that tread depth should not be less than 1.6 mm.
The battery
Battery problems are the most common, so take a few minutes to check the terminals for whitish discoloration . A battery's lifespan is between 4 and 5 years; keep this in mind to avoid any surprises.
The braking system
Heat can cause brakes to overheat , so it's essential to check their condition before starting your trip. A simple way to do this is to press the brake pedal for a few seconds, then check if it stays in that position or if it gradually releases, which could indicate a fluid leak or a leak. Testing the brakes in a controlled manner also helps determine if rust has accumulated on the disc or dirt on the pads.
The lights
On long trips, it's hard not to end up traveling at night or in the evening, so it's important to check that the parking lights, turn signals, and brake lights aren't burned out ; you should also check their height to ensure they're properly adjusted. Last but not least, check that the protective screens on the headlights and taillights aren't dirty or damaged , as this could also impair your vision.
The windshield
Without good visibility, checking all of the above is of little use. If your windshield has cracks or breaks, don't hesitate to get it repaired , and don't forget your wiper blades. In the heat, they can crack and lose their effectiveness, and you never know when a downpour might hit!
Roll down your windows before getting in your car to begin your trip . This will equalize the temperature between the outside and the interior, which is usually higher, and prevent overuse of the air conditioning, thus extending its useful life.
We know you think everything and more is necessary on your trip, but try not to overload your car . Excess weight can cause erratic and unstable handling, as well as increase braking distance.
Likewise, if you're planning a long trip, make sure you get plenty of rest the night before , avoid heavy meals before leaving, and if you're taking medication, make sure any side effects won't interfere with your driving.
Don't forget your Help Flash, which will allow you to signal in a matter of seconds if you unfortunately have an accident on the road, especially in low visibility. One final piece of advice: carry a second set of keys in case you damage or lose the main one.
During use
Especially on long journeys, adopt an efficient driving style. It's best to use high gears whenever possible, maintain a constant average speed, avoid sudden and unnecessary acceleration, and use engine braking on long descents. This will increase the lifespan of your engine and moving parts, while also saving fuel and, consequently, helping the environment.
If you exceed 50 km/h (31 mph) , do not drive with the windows down , as this increases fuel consumption due to the vehicle's lack of aerodynamics, rather than using the air conditioning. The recommended temperature for the latter is around 21-22°C.
Avoid driving during the hottest hours . Not only is this not recommended for vehicle passengers, but it also affects the mechanics and tires, shortening their lifespan.
After use
It sounds obvious, but if we get into the car during very hot hours, the temperature inside can reach 60°C if we leave it in full sun , which can significantly affect the most vulnerable members of the family, such as children, the elderly, and pets.
Don't leave the air conditioning running while the car is idling. This drains the battery relatively quickly, and you may experience battery drain issues.
Protect your steering wheel, and even your seats if you have leather upholstery, to avoid getting burned when you drive again. You can also protect the paint from the sun by applying a UV-absorbing wax.
Finally, if your trip was to a coastal area, it may be advisable to perform a thorough wash , paying special attention to the underbody, which is where the most saltwater can accumulate. This will prevent a remote but possible corrosion.
