KOCHI: When the Meteorological department puts the temperature at 37 degrees, most people feel the day is hotter than 40 degrees. Such a heat wave is seen in many parts of the country. This time, Kerala, too, is witnessing the highest levels of summer heat since February, way before the usual summer season. As we people need shelters to relax and hide from the sun, do vehicles too need some solace? Let’s check.
Long parking under the scorching sun, being stuck in slow-moving traffic on a sunny day, etc, can also affect cars. Exposure to intense temperatures for a long time could damage the paint, the electronics equipment and the plastic/fibre/rubber parts of the vehicle.
OVERHEATING
The rising temperature can overheat the engine. And it works extra hard to keep cool in the summer. If the coolant or radiator fluids reach abnormally high temperatures, the engine can also overheat. The solution is to make sure coolant levels are kept adequate and appropriate.
TYRE BURST
Another big health issue affecting cars is problems with the tyres. The rapid changes in temperature due to the heat that is rising like never before during the day and the relatively cooler nighttime can cause tyre blowouts. One should check your tyre pressure regularly and inflate them to the correct pounds per square inch for the vehicle. It is a must for safety, fuel efficiency and proper functionality. Small to mid-size vehicles typically fall in the range of 30-40PSI and vehicles with larger tyres usually will be 40-45PSI. This can be seen on the user manual and on the sticker pasted near the driver’s door.
CABIN COOLING
Always try to park the car in the shade, but when it is not possible, keep the windows slightly down to aid cross-ventilation. When parked in the sun, sticking a sun shade to the windows will also help. A car’s AC takes the most load on a hot day. So check at regular intervals.
Irrespective of how powerful your AC unit is, it takes time due to all the heat trapped in the car, especially when parked under direct sunlight. To avoid this, roll down the windows first and let some of the heat escape. Switch to the highest fan setting for a couple of minutes and then roll up the windows.
BATTERY ISSUES
Battery works harder in hot weather, which shortens its life and reduces efficiency. Get the battery checked to find out if it’s in good health.
STAY HYDRATED
Just like the car, the driver also needs to keep cool during the summer. Dehydration and heat exhaustion can impact a person’s ability to drive. Staying hydrated can keep everyone alert and avoid an accident. Keep a few water bottles in a cool spot in the car so that one can always have water nearby.
QUICK TIPS
Park in the shade
Use window shades
Replace air filters
Monitor tyre pressure
Check the battery
Keep an eye on fluid/coolant levels
Get the AC serviced
Keep windows slightly open
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