Driving in extreme heat can present unique challenges for drivers. Whether you’re simply running around town and checking things off your admin list or planning a road trip through South Africa, it’s important to know what to do if the day is on the higher end of the thermometer.  

What with the fact that South Africa is known for having very hot roads, we have put together some essential safety tips for drivers when facing extreme heat. 

Check Coolant Levels

Make sure that your engine has the right level of coolant as this is vital to preventing your engine from overheating. A lot of us are guilty of not regularly checking these levels, so it’s highly recommended that you get it measured and flushed at the start of the summer season. Most mechanics suggest flushing and refilling every two years, so if you’ve never done it, take this as your sign. 

While you’re looking in on the coolant levels, take the time to check your water levels, too.  

Maintain Air Conditioning 

If you’ve never experienced driving around with zero air conditioning, count yourself lucky. There are some of us who remember blasting the fan, only to realise that cracking a window in 40-degree heat provided more relief. That’s how ineffective the fan actually was. 

A properly operating air conditioning system doesn’t do anything for your vehicle, but it is crucial for a comfortable driving environment and does reduce driver fatigue. If the air conditioning is not as effective as you know it should be, have it checked by a certified technician. 

It’s Tyre Time 

You’re meant to be checking your tyre pressure every month, although we’ll allow that we don’t all do it every month… however, even if you are sticking to this monthly check, you’ll need to keep a closer eye on your tyres during the warmer months as heat can increase tyre pressure rapidly.  

Look After Yourself (and passengers) 

In hot weather, regardless of whether you’re doing something active or sitting behind the steering wheel for a few hours, you need to stay hydrated. Make sure you have an adequate supply of water in your vehicle, and if you’re driving far distances then make sure to take regular breaks as the heat can tire you out. 

Park In The Shade 

The fact is that the sun’s UV rays have the power to do serious damage to your vehicle’s paint, plastic trim, and interior. Where possible, park in the shade or use a car cover to help protect your vehicle from the harmful effects of the sun. Even if you think the cover is overkill, it does a brilliant job and you’ll be grateful you went this extra step when you slide into the driver’s seat and don’t scorch your backside. 

Advice For Electric Cars 

Extreme temperatures, both high and low, can greatly reduce the charge of your battery – sometimes by as much as 40%. Make sure you’re aware of what extreme heat can do to your battery life as you go about your day or plan your trip.  

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS 

Let’s say that the worst-case scenario has happened, and your vehicle’s temperature gauge is moving above the halfway mark on the dashboard. There’s even what appears to be steam coming out of the engine. 

Here’s what to do: 

• Pull over as soon as it’s safe to do so and give your engine a break. 
• If you can’t pull over just yet, try turning off your air conditioning and turning on your heat as this could help give your engine a break.   
• If there’s steam or smoke, we urge you to get away from the vehicle – especially if it’s smoke.  
• Do not add coolant or water until the engine cools down. 
• Call for roadside assistance. 

Feel informed?  

The different seasons we’re fortunate enough to experience in South Africa means that we have to change up how we run our lives so that we can survive and thrive under all conditions. Case in point, how you prep yourself and vehicle for summer will be different than what you’d do during winter.  

The good news is that with regular vehicle maintenance, you’ll always be in a position to make sure that your vehicle is in good working condition and able to handle the icy winters, pouring rain, and extreme heat. And if something does go wrong, then an AA Warranty will give you the ultimate peace of mind, knowing that you can call on us to get you out of hot water and back on the road in no time.  

If you’re interested in checking out our range of AA Warranties.