News
Pegasus Couriers Podcast
FOLLOW US TO KEEP UP TO DATE: Twitter Linkedin Instagram Facebook Spotify Pegasus Couriers is excited to offer a new way for our customers and industry professionals to stay informed and engaged. Our
UK Summer Breakdown Tips
Phil West
Director
Understanding Vehicle Behavior Changes
Summer breakdowns in the UK can be a real headache, but regular car care can keep you on the road. Let’s explore some practical tips for keeping your vehicle running smoothly.
First, check your battery for corrosion and make sure it’s connected properly. According to the RAC, a dead battery is the top reason for breakdowns, accounting for 39% of all incidents (RAC, 2021).
Tire pressure matters more than you might think. Proper inflation reduces your risk of accidents and improves fuel efficiency by up to 3% (U.S. Department of Energy, 2022). Keep a tyre pressure gauge in your glove box and check monthly.
Overheating is a typical summer issue. Top up your coolant and oil regularly. A well-maintained cooling system is crucial for preventing engine damage during hot weather.
Don’t forget your AC. A serviced system runs more efficiently, saving you fuel. Plus, it keeps you cool and focused on long drives.
Wipers might seem minor, but they are vital for safety. Replace them every 6-12 months for clear visibility in sudden summer showers.
Pack an emergency kit with water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. It’s better to have it and not need it than vice versa.
Understanding normal summer car behaviours can save you stress. AC condensation dripping under your car? That’s normal. Hearing the cooling fan more often? Also normal in hot weather.
Summer Breakdown Prevention
As temperatures rise, so does the risk of your car breaking down. The scorching heat can wreak havoc on your vehicle’s components, especially the battery. According to AAA, summer sees an 11% spike in battery-related breakdowns compared to other seasons (AA, 2022).
But don’t sweat it! You can keep your ride running smoothly all summer with a few simple steps.
First things first: Get your battery checked. Heat accelerates battery corrosion and fluid evaporation, which can leave you stranded. Most auto parts stores offer free battery testing.
Next up: Keep an eye on your coolant levels. Low coolant can lead to overheating, which can cause severe engine damage. Check your coolant regularly and top it off if needed.
Tires need love too. Heat causes air pressure to increase, which can lead to blowouts. Check your tyre pressure monthly and before long trips.
Remember your oil! Heat makes oil break down faster, so stick to your car’s recommended oil change schedule.
Lastly, pack an emergency kit. Include water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a fully charged phone. Better safe than sorry!
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
A Basic Checklist:
After some research, I developed a short checklist that could help prevent summer breakdowns.
Vehicle Battery:
The RAC said vehicle battery issues are the main offender of summer breakdowns.
Vehicle batteries often face a demanding time in both winter and summer. The number of short trips, increased stop-start activity, and a load of numerous gadgets can lead to battery exhaustion. If your vehicle experiences slow starting or dimmed lights, these could be signs of a depleting battery.
For batteries nearing their fourth or fifth year, it’s advisable to consider replacing them before embarking on a long journey.
Overheating and Fluids:
According to insurance company AXA, vehicles are 50% more likely to overheat in the summer. Check your coolant levels to keep your engine cool in the summer. Interestingly, 31% of vehicles are more likely to have gearbox problems in summer. To prevent this, check the transmission oil.
Make sure your vehicle also has brake fluid. Read the owner’s manual for your vehicle’s correct levels.
Inspect Tyres
As mentioned earlier this month, ensuring your tyres are correctly inflated and have good tread is critical.
Be prepared
It is always a good idea to pack a small first-aid kit, water and snack bars. I also recommend keeping a mobile charging cord in the vehicle if you need to charge your mobile during a breakdown.
Punctures and a Spare Tyre
A tyre puncture can be a road-trip worst nightmare. The risk increases during summer travels, especially with more passengers and luggage. If the vehicle has no spare tyre, get a repair kit as a backup. Please familiarise yourself with the repair kit and how to use it. Remember that a repair kit will not suffice for severe punctures, and a spare tyre will be necessary.
I also advise that you save your breakdown services emergency contact number on your mobile – that makes it less stressful to try to find contact numbers during a breakdown.
Alternator Anomalies
Alternator issues are linked to battery problems. High demand for the alternator, coupled with hot weather, can expose any weaknesses. If your vehicle’s red battery warning light flickers on the dashboard, stop the vehicle. Alternator replacements can be costly, so detecting and addressing issues earlier is better and safer.
Clutch Complications
Vehicles see increased use in engaging with the clutch – largely due to summer traffic. Unfamiliar terrains and towing trailers can add to the strain on your clutch. Warning signs of a worn clutch include:
- A heavy or gritty pedal.
- High clutch bite.
- Slipping when accelerating in a high gear at low speed.
Not All Changes are Problems
The heat can bring about specific changes in your vehicle’s behaviour. However, not all of these are cause for concern:
- Pools of Water: Condensed water from the air conditioning system can puddle under your vehicle.
- Smoke from Air Vents: Unless the smoke is acrid, it’s usually water vapour from the air conditioning unit.
- Roaring from the Engine Bay: This is typically the cooling fan turning on and off.
- Less power: vehicles can seem more sluggish in summer due to warmer, less dense air.
Not All Changes are Problems
Remember ‘FORCES’ for a quick vehicle check:
- Fuel: Ensure your vehicle has enough fuel for the journey.
- Oil: Regularly check your oil level to prevent engine damage and overheating.
- Rubber: Check your tyres for uneven wear and ensure wiper blades are in good condition.
- Coolant: Monitor coolant levels to maintain the right engine temperature.
- Electrics: Ensure your vehicle’s electrics, including wipers, lights, indicators, and windows, function correctly.
- Screenwash: Keep your windscreen washer fluid topped up to ensure clear visibility.
Summer Fun
Summer brings its share of challenges for all drivers. With a bit of preparation, motorists can ensure an enjoyable and safer journey. Regular vehicle checks, understanding your vehicle’s behaviour, cautious driving, and appropriate breakdown cover can prevent unforeseen hiccups.
We always discuss issues and possible breakdown protocols with our drivers. The Pegasus Couriers Driver Intranet lists all the breakdown and insurance providers our drivers need. This ensures all the much-needed emergency contacts are at their fingertips.
Interested?
If you want more information, read how Courier Drivers use technology to save time, how road safety can save lives, what to do if you fill up with the wrong fuel, typical delivery driver Q&A and much more.
If you want to become a driver or need more information, apply online, and we will call you back.
Keeping you informed of local news at Pegasus Couriers
FOLLOW US TO KEEP UP TO DATE:
News
Is Physical Fitness and Exercise Important for Delivery Drivers?
Is Physical Fitness and Exercise Important for Delivery Drivers? Benefits of physical fitness for delivery drivers Physical fitness is crucial for courier drivers because of the job’s physical demands. You often need to
News
Van Couriers for Small Business Deliveries
Why Choose a Van Courier for Small Business Deliveries? Benefits of Using Van Couriers for e-Commerce Businesses If you run a small business, using a van courier for your deliveries can be an
