February 22, 2024

How to Prepare your Vehicle for Summer

How to prepare your vehicle for summer. Summer is coming and you need to prepare your vehicle for the pending harsh weather conditions of the season. Predictions are telling us we have a long, hot summer in store with severe storms, paired with non-stop rain on the Gold Coast. The time is now to get your tyres replaced and pay attention to other parts of your vehicle that could be considered a safety risk. In Queensland, our winter weather is quite forgiving on our cars. However, the unsympathetic and relentless conditions in summer really do put our cars to the test. Across Australia we experience an average of 500 severe storms annually. Heat can be incredibly damaging and will effect all aspects of your car. The wet roads can be unpredictable and unsafe.

Tyres

Tyres are without question, the number one thing you should be checking before summer. They are the only thing that keeps your car in contact with the road. Driving in wet weather conditions can be life threatening when your tyres aren’t quite up to scratch. The number one thing to look out for is worn tyre tread and uneven tread wear. Worn tread will dramatically increase your chances of spinning out or aquaplaning in summer storms. Drastic change in temperature can cause your tyre pressure to drastically change. PSI levels should be monitored.

Summer Tyres

Hot temperatures specifically are harsh on your tyres. Summer tyres are designer for hot temperatures. Harder compounds paired with a unique tread pattern are used for summer tyres. They improve grip on dry road surfaces and in wet summer storms, and target hazards like aquaplaning.

All Season Tyres

All season tyres or all weather tyres are suited to most Gold Coast motorists. As the Gold Coast doesn’t usually face extreme weather conditions all season tyres offer safety throughout the entire year. They save your from changing your tyres repeatedly throughout the year by comparing elements of summer and winter tyres and can therefore brave the wind and rain. It is worth considering that we are often exposed to serve storm conditions and heavy rainfall sporadically throughout the year. An all season tyre that addresses concerns of aquaplaning.

Hot Tips

Have an emergency kit on board in preparation for harsh weather conditions
Check your headlights
Always carry a bottle of water and store food in your car incase you have to pull over for a long period of time when driving in a storm
Store your vehicle in a garage or similar if you can
Have a plan in place to get your car uncover in the event of a major storm to avoid hail damage
Do not drive through a flooded area and park away from areas with a high risk of flood
Check the condition of your windshield wipes
Check fluid levels of your windshield wipes
Clean the inside of your windshield
Check your cars fluid levels
Get your battery and brakes checked
Ensure your car insurance covers storm and flood damage

What to do in a storm

Driving in a severe storm is highly dangerous and should be avoided. If you find yourself driving in a storm the most important thing to remember is to drive slow. This also applies to driving in all wet weather as the roads are extra slippery. Driving at a slower speed gives to more time to react. Do not drive through floodwaters even if they appear shallow as there can be a heavy undercurrent. If visibility is impacted and it is hailing you should pull over away from any trees or large objects. This may be safer than racing to the nearest uncover parking. Potholes and puddles should be avoided when they can.