The Australian summer shouldn’t be taken lightly, as scorching heat, dry roads, and long stretches of travel are all part of the season. While we’re used to preparing ourselves for the heat, it’s just as important to prepare our cars, too. High temperatures can strain your car battery, affect your tyre pressure, and push your cooling system to its limits.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to prepare your car for summer in Australia, with practical steps you can take to keep your car running smoothly and reduce the risk of a breakdown when the heat is at its peak.
Why Summer In Australia Can Be Tough On Your Car
Driving in summer conditions can put added stress on your car’s critical systems. From the engine to the tyres, every component has to work harder in the heat, especially during road trips, long commutes, or stop-start traffic in busy areas.
Here’s how the summer heat can impact your car:
- Increased risk of battery failure from high under-bonnet temperatures
- Tyre blowouts caused by incorrect inflation and hot road surfaces
- Cooling system stress, which can lead to overheating
- Air conditioning working harder to keep the cabin cool
- Interior damage due to direct UV exposure
Being proactive with car maintenance before summer arrives can prevent most of these issues and ensure you’re driving safely and comfortably.
Essential Summer Car Maintenance Checks
Booking in for a summer-ready inspection is one of the best ways to avoid mid-season problems. Here are the key systems and components you should focus on:
Check Your Car Battery
Your car battery is more likely to fail in summer than in winter. That’s because high temperatures can speed up chemical reactions inside the battery, causing it to degrade faster.
To prevent further damage, look out for:
- Slow engine crank or clicking sounds when starting
- Dim lights or electrical issues
- A bloated or swollen battery case
If your battery is over three years old or you’ve had issues with starting the car, it may be time for a test or replacement. You can have this done quickly during your next visit to your closest Ultra Tune service centre.
Monitor Tyre Pressure and Condition
Tyres naturally lose pressure over time, but summer heat can cause rapid fluctuations. Driving on underinflated or overinflated tyres increases the risk of a blowout, especially on hot roads or during long-distance travel.
To monitor the condition of your tyres, look out for:
- Tyre pressure at least once a fortnight (including the spare)
- Uneven tread wear
- Cracks or damage on the sidewall
Maintaining the correct tyre pressure will not only improve your car’s safety but also extend its lifespan and improve fuel economy.
Ensure Your Air Conditioner Is Performing
Your air conditioner works harder than usual in summer, and a weak or faulty system can make driving uncomfortable and potentially dangerous if you’re stuck in traffic.
You can test it early by:
- Running the A/C on max for a few minutes
- Checking for inconsistent cooling or unusual smells
- Listening for unusual noises from the vents
If it’s not working as it should, it might need a regas, further inspection, and potentially repair.
Inspect Coolant and Engine Fluids
One of the most common summer breakdowns is the car engine overheating, which is usually caused by low coolant or old engine oil.
To prevent this issue, make sure to check:
- Coolant levels and condition (i.e. green or red, but never brown or rusty)
- Engine oil is marked between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks on the dipstick, and the colour shouldn’t be very dark
- Brake and transmission fluid if you’re planning a longer trip
Coolant should typically be flushed and replaced every two years. Regular car maintenance can include an inspection to determine if the fluids are topped up and in good condition ahead of the hot months.
Keeping Your Car Cool During Summer
Beyond servicing, there are a few simple habits you can adopt to protect your car and keep the cabin cooler, particularly if you’re parked in an area with constant exposure to the sun for long periods of time.
Park In The Shade Whenever Possible
Where you choose to park your car during the summer can make a big difference. Parking in the shade can help protect both the interior and mechanical components from excessive heat.
If you can’t find shade, consider using a windscreen sunshade to reflect UV rays and reduce cabin temperature.
Use Window Tinting and Car Covers
Window tinting helps block UV rays, reduce glare, and prevent interior surfaces from fading or cracking. It also helps regulate interior temperature on hotter days.
For additional protection, a light-coloured car cover can shield the paint and reduce heat buildup, especially if your car is parked outdoors regularly.
Ventilate Your Car Before Driving
When you first get into a hot car, the cabin temperature can be significantly higher than the outside temperature. Let the hot air escape before turning on the air conditioning by opening all the windows briefly and running the fan for a minute.
If your car has a sunroof, cracking it slightly while parked can also help regulate interior temperature.
Stay Road-Ready This Summer With Ultra Tune
Preparing your car for the warmer months is a smart way to avoid breakdowns, extend its lifespan, and make every trip safer and more comfortable. Whether you’re getting ready for a long road trip or just commuting around town, a summer-ready car can make all the difference.
Ultra Tune makes it easy to keep your car ready for summer in Australia with:
- Experienced mechanics across 270 service centres nationwide
- Full system checks, battery tests, fluid top-ups, and more
- Clear communication and fast turnaround times
- Flexible bookings and transparent pricing
Ready to get your car summer-ready? Book a service or find your local Ultra Tune centre to get started today.
