The arrival of high temperatures triggers all the alarms at the Spanish Directorate General of Traffic (DGT). Beyond speed and alcohol enforcement campaigns, there is a critical factor that multiplies accidents and breakdowns during the summer months: the mechanical condition of vehicles that take to the highways under a blazing sun.
A correct car maintenance in summer It's not optional advice, it's a survival measure for the engine And for the occupants. Official statistics show that roadside assistance calls skyrocket during the holiday period, revealing negligence that could have been avoided with a simple professional inspection.
The real problem lies in those components that the human eye cannot detect with the naked eye. Elements that function correctly on short urban journeys, but that completely fail when subjected to continuous stress with asphalt temperatures approaching 60 degrees Celsius.
The real mechanical risks highlighted by the DGT
Extreme heat is the worst enemy of mechanical reliability. When the thermometer rises, the strength of materials decreases significantly, and vital fluids lose their essential chemical properties, accelerating a chain reaction of failures.
To avoid a major scare in the middle of a trip, special attention should be paid to the three weak points that cause the most interventions on Spanish highways:
Accelerated tire wear
Driving with underinflated tires causes the tread to overheat. Add to that the heat of the road surface, and the risk of a fall increases significantly. high-speed blowout It multiplies, being one of the most serious causes of accidents in the summer season.
The evaporation of the coolant
The system responsible for maintaining the engine at its optimal temperature works at the limit of its capacity. A small leak or aged fluid will disrupt the thermal equilibrium of the engine block, causing a engine warm-up which will irreversibly destroy the cylinder head.
The breakdown of the braking system
Brake pads and discs dissipate heat through the air. When the ambient temperature is very high, this process slows down, potentially leading to the dreaded problem of brake burnout. fading effectThe brake fluid boils and the pedal becomes spongy. losing braking capacity at the most critical moment.
The definitive protocol for preparing your vehicle for the heat
Mitigating these risks requires a proactive approach before packing your bags. A thorough check focused on the car maintenance in summer It will save your vacation budget and guarantee the safe return of the whole family.
- Check the cold pressure: Always adjust the levels according to the manufacturer's instructions, taking into account whether the vehicle will be traveling with the maximum permitted load.
- Replace old fluids: Both oil and antifreeze have a limited lifespan; if they are degraded, they will lose viscosity and protective properties against friction.
- Cleaning the front radiator: The accumulation of insects, leaves, and dirt blocks the direct airflow, preventing the cooling system from functioning properly.
- Alternator battery check: The intensive use of air conditioner It places an extra strain on the electrical system, which often fails due to the evaporation of the battery's internal acid.
The guarantee of traveling safely with trusted professionals
Visual checks performed by a driver before setting off are useful, but lack the precision needed to detect micro-leaks or internal wear in the electronics of the vehicle. For this reason, the DGT (Spanish Directorate General of Traffic) emphasizes the importance of having your vehicle serviced before embarking on long-distance journeys.
To ensure a flawless car maintenance in summer, the facilities of Auto Center Marina Alta They offer the ideal infrastructure to certify the safety of any vehicle. This multi-brand mechanical workshop stands out for its fast and preventative service, designed to avoid breakdowns on the road.
Drivers seeking absolute peace of mind place their trust in this center for three fundamental reasons:
- Electronic diagnostic equipment: They locate latent faults in the temperature and pressure sensors before the fault indicator light comes on in the instrument panel.
- Air conditioning specialists: They perform precise gas refills and sanitize the circuit to ensure clean and efficient air, reducing driver fatigue.
- Guarantee of original spare parts: They use high-quality components and liquids that strictly comply with European manufacturers' regulations.
Heed the safety warnings and perform the car maintenance in summer Having a professional team is the only secret to enjoying your vacation destination without a hitch. Trust in Auto Center Marina Alta It's the smart decision to protect the engine and ensure safety every kilometer.
