Breakdowns surge as heatwave sweeps across UK

Temperatures are forecast to reach their highest over the weekend with some areas set to hit 30°C today (10 July), with more widespread highs above 30°C expected tomorrow (11 July).

On Saturday 12 July, parts of England and Wales may see peak temperatures reaching up to 33°C.

The combination of extreme heat and drivers making the most of the summer weather over the weekend will put further strain on cars and vans, making breakdowns more likely.

• Five surprising things your car does in the summer
• Extreme heat warning – should you be driving?
• The quickest way to cool your car down

“We’re seeing a surge in breakdowns as this latest period of hot weather takes hold, with up to 20% more vehicles failing than expected at this point in July,” said RAC breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson.

“With above-average temperatures in many parts expected for the foreseeable future, very high volumes of breakdowns will persist through this coming weekend and well into next week.

“Our teams are working incredibly hard to help thousands of stranded drivers every day, but waiting times are longer as a result.

“Drivers should do whatever they can to avoid their vehicles letting them down in these conditions - oil and coolant levels, as well as tyres, must be checked before journeys are made.

“If anything isn’t right, get the problem diagnosed by a mobile mechanic or reputable garage, rather than running the risk of driving. Taking plenty of breaks on long journeys, to give themselves and their cars a rest, is also important.

“Staying safe in the heat, especially if a breakdown is unavoidable, should be in the mind of every driver.

“Carrying plenty of water for all passengers is a must, as is keeping sunscreen and a sun hat or even umbrella to hand to reduce the ferocity of the sun. When waiting for assistance, look for a safe location in the shade and well away from moving traffic."

Five things to have in your car in a heatwave

If you are driving your car in a heatwave, it’s important to pack some essential items.

Here are the top five things you should have in your car:

1. Emergency breakdown kit: Ensure you’re always prepared for a breakdown by having an emergency kit in your vehicle. This should include a first aid kit, hi-vis vests (for the driver and all of the passengers), and a warning triangle.
2. Cold drinks: Pack lots of water and soft drinks. Driving in hot weather can also result in dehydration, which affects your concentration levels and co-ordination
3. Phone charger and powerbank: If your car breakdowns, you’ll need your phone to call for help. Keep a spare phone charger in your vehicle. Many modern cars have USB sockets, which allows you to charge your phone while on the move
4. Sunscreen: Protect yourself from sunburn by packing sunscreen. If you are driving with the windows open or own an open-top car then you can easily become burnt in the summer sun
5. Cooler bag/box: Keep your drinks and snacks cool by packing an insulated bag or box. This will prevent your drinks and snacks from perishing in the heat

Five essential car maintenance checks you must do in the summer

Car maintenance is important year-round, but during a heatwave there are a few things you should be doing on a regular basis.

Here are the five summer car maintenance tips to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

• Fuel: Ensure you have enough fuel for your journey. Hot weather can increase the risk of traffic jams, especially on popular routes to beaches and parks
• Oil: Check it’s at the right level. Too little or too much oil can result in a costly breakdown
• Rubber: Ensure your tyres are inflated to the correct levels. The tread level must meet the minimum legal requirement of 1.6mm across the entire circumference of the tread
• Coolant: Check engine coolant levels and top up if necessary to prevent overheating in the summer temperatures. Don’t drive if the red coolant light comes on. Having to top up with coolant regularly signifies a wider problem that you should get checked without delay
• Electrics: Ensure everything is working properly. This includes headlights, indicators and brake lights. If your vehicle has air conditioning, check that it works as it should
• Screen wash: Check the screen wash level and top up if necessary to keep your windscreen clear at all times

How to keep your car cool in a heatwave

This is the RAC’s advice for cooling down a hot car as quickly as possible:

1. Open both the windows on one side of the car, then ‘fan’ the interior by swinging a door on the opposite side back and forth.
2. Start the engine and switch the air conditioning to its coldest setting. Open all windows half way to help cool faster and ensure wider circulation of cool or fresh air.
3. Drivers should direct the airflow through the lower vents to push hot air upwards and out of open windows.
4. Keep the windows open while driving until the air feels cooler. Drivers should leave the air conditioning on while doing this.
5. Finally, close all the windows in the vehicle and keep the air con switched on to maintain a lower temperature.