Our Top Summer Car Maintenance Tips
British summers remain as unpredictable as ever - blazing sunshine can easily turn into torrential downpours within the same 24 hours. While the weather often struggles to make up its mind, your car's performance should always remain consistent.
A little preparation goes a long way toward safer, smoother journeys, whether you’re heading to the coast, the countryside, or just the supermarket.
Below is your 2026 summer car-care checklist, updated for modern vehicles, hotter summers and new UK driving trends to keep your car in top condition during the warmer months.
Tyre Pressure
High temperatures can cause tyre pressure to rise quickly. As a rule of thumb, tyre pressure can increase by around 1 PSI for every 5.6°C increase in temperature. Combined with friction from hot roads, tyres can easily become overinflated during summer, raising the risk of blowouts and reducing fuel efficiency.
How to manage tyre pressure in summer:
1. Check tyre pressure first thing in the morning while the tyres are still cool.
2. Use a digital pressure gauge for accuracy.
3. If you're mid-journey and catch that your tyres feel hot, adjust by releasing a very small amount of air. Remember, they may drop below the recommended level once cooled.
4. Always follow the manufacturer's recommended PSI.
Tyre Tread
Sudden summer showers can leave roads slick or flooded, increasing the risk of aquaplaning. Adequate tread depth is essential for grip and safe braking.
Quick tread check: Insert a 20p coin into the tyre tread. If you can still see the outer rim, your tread may be below the UK legal minimum of 1.6mm.
Note that for accuracy and reliable safety:
- Use a tread depth gauge.
- Check the tyre’s built-in tread wear indicators.
If your tyres are worn:
1. Replace them promptly.
2. Consider summer tyres, which offer shorter stopping distances and better warm-weather grip.
A/C System
A functioning air-conditioning system is a must-have during long waits in summer traffic. If your A/C isn’t blowing cold air within a few minutes, it may need a re-gas or a deeper inspection.
Signs of faulty air-con include:
- Weak airflow.
- Musty smells(often mould in the system).
- Clicking or rattling noises (possible compressor or fan issues).
If you notice any of these issues, book a check at your nearest National Tyres branch.
Cabin Filters
Cabin filters trap pollen, dust, pollution and debris - an essential car part for hay fever sufferers during peak pollen season. Plus, with increased pollen counts every year, cabin filters are only becoming more important, whether you suffer from allergies or not!*
Replace your cabin filter if:
- It looks dirty or clogged.
- Airflow feels weaker.
- It’s been 12 months or more since your last change.
This replacement is also included as standard in a Major Service at National Tyres Autocentre. You can also check out how to replace your cabin filter at home.
Car Battery
Although flat batteries are often associated with winter, heat is actually a major cause of battery degradation. High temperatures can cause the internal fluid to evaporate, reducing voltage and shortening battery life.
Battery tips:
- If your battery is 5+ years old, consider testing or replacing it.
- If your car struggles to start after a hot day, the battery may need recharging — or it may be nearing the end of its life.
Visit your local National Tyres for a free battery check to help you identify any small battery issues before they turn into major faults.
General Top Ups
Before summer road trips, check the essentials you can manage at home:
- Windscreen wipers: Replace if streaking or skipping.
- Windscreen washer fluid: Keep topped up for clearer visibility.
- Oil level: Check when the engine is cool.
- Brake fluid: Ensure it’s within the recommended range.
- Coolant: Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot.
For extra clarity in wet weather, consider a windscreen treatment like Duxback, which helps repel water, dust and insects.
Sun Protection
UV rays can fade paintwork and heat up your interior quickly.
Protect your vehicle from the sun by:
- Parking in the shade whenever possible.
- Using a windscreen sunshade.
- Applying a UV-protective wax coat.
- Considering window tinting (within UK legal limits).
A little care keeps your car looking newer for longer!
EV summer advice
If you drive an e-vehicle, there are a few additional tips worth knowing if you plan to drive in hotter conditions.
EV Range:
During the summer months, heat can actually reduce the range of your EV as the battery management system works harder to keep it cool. As energy is drawn from the battery for temperature control, less is available for driving, so keep that in mind during any long summer road trips.
Signs that your EV is heat-stressed include:
- Delayed acceleration.
- Reduced regenerative braking.
- Driving range decreases.
- Cooling fans operating loudly once parked.
Pre-conditioning:
A way to maximise your battery range during warmer weather includes pre-conditioning.
Turning on the A/C and cooling your cabin before you begin driving, and while it’s still plugged into the charger, can make a huge difference. Getting your cabin to a comfortable temperature while plugged in means that the energy is drawn from the grid rather than your car battery.
You may even be able to schedule pre-conditioning from your app, making it perfect before your commute to work or recommencing a trip away.
EV Charging in hot weather:
Keep in mind that your EV charger can also slow down in the heat to protect your battery from overheating.
To charge your EV smartly in the summer:
- Aim to charge around a lower state of charge (less than 20%) to allow your battery to cool before charging.
- During road trips, avoid back-to-back rapid charging.
- Park in the shade, particularly during charging.
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So, whatever your plans are this summer, make sure that your car can get you there safely and on time. Use our top maintenance advice as a checklist to prepare yourself for the warmer months ahead. Or be super organised with our summer-ready service bundle so that you can drive with peace of mind.
* Why Is Pollen So High and Getting Worse? - ScienceInsights
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