Preparing your car for summer

Summer is almost here – and whether you're beach-bound, country-cruising, or just making the most of the lighter evenings, the last thing you want is a car that lets you down halfway to your destination. Hotter temperatures, longer journeys, and heavier loads all mean your car needs a bit of attention before you hit the road. But don’t worry – we’ve put together your ultimate summer maintenance checklist to help you avoid breakdowns and keep the good times rolling. 

Oil is one of the most important things you can check before a long journey – it keeps your engine parts lubricated and helps prevent overheating, especially in warmer weather. 

You should be checking your oil regularly anyway (we know… easier said than done), but before any summer road trip, make it a priority. 

Signs your oil might need changed: 

• It looks dark, dirty, or has a gritty/sludgy texture 
• There’s a burnt smell coming from the engine 
• You notice consistently low levels, even after topping up (could be a leak!) 
• It’s become thick or sticky 

How to check your oil: 

1. Park your car on level ground and let the engine cool. 
2. Open the bonnet and find the dipstick – usually marked with a yellow or orange handle. 
3. Pull it out, wipe it clean, pop it back in fully, then pull it out again to read the level. 
4. The oil should be between the MIN and MAX markers. If it’s low, top it up with the right oil for your car – check your manual or just ask us. 

Regular checks = a healthier engine and fewer nasty surprises on the road. 

Your tyres play a massive role in keeping you safe, fuel-efficient and legal. Heat can affect tyre pressure, and worn tyres can seriously impact your car’s grip and braking distance. 

What to check: 

• Tread depth – legally, it must be above 1.6mm. Use a 20p coin: pop it into the tread. If you can see the outer rim, your tread’s too low. 
• Cracks, bulges or uneven wear – these are warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored. 
• Pressure – find the recommended PSI in your handbook or door sticker and inflate accordingly. 

If anything looks off, book in for a quick tyre check – we’ve got you covered. Read our previous blog post for more help.  

Summer heat can put stress on your car battery (yes, even in Belfast). If your battery is already on its last legs, hot weather could push it over the edge. 

Signs of a struggling battery include: 

• Slow engine start 
• Flickering lights 
• Electrical gremlins (like your radio cutting out or windows not opening or closing) 

If you’ve noticed any of the above, let us run a quick battery test. 

When you’re carrying extra weight, heading downhill, or in start-stop traffic, your brakes are working harder than usual. Make sure they’re up to the task. 

Keep an ear (and foot) out for: 

• Squealing or grinding noises 
• A spongy brake pedal 
• Increased stopping distances 
• If you’re unsure, get your brake pads, discs and fluid checked before setting off.

It’s not just your engine oil that needs attention. Make sure the following are all topped up and in good condition: 

• Coolant – crucial for preventing overheating 
• Brake fluid – low levels can affect stopping power 
• Power steering fluid – for easy handling 
• Windscreen washer fluid – legally required and essential during bug season 

Hot tip: a full windscreen washer bottle is a legal requirement in the UK, so don’t risk a fine over a simple fix. 

Belts and hoses might not get much attention, but they’re critical to your car’s performance. The heat can cause rubber components to crack or degrade faster. 

Have a quick look under the bonnet or pop in for a visual check – fraying, cracks or bulges are all red flags... If you don’t know what we mean, give us a call! 

We all want sunshine, but Northern Ireland doesn’t always deliver. Summer showers can hit hard, so make sure your wiper blades aren’t leaving streaks or skipping. 

If they’re squeaking, smearing, or looking a bit worse for wear, it’s time for a replacement – they’ve probably taken a beating over winter...  

Once your car is sorted, you’re ready for any summer adventure. Don’t forget these must-dos if your adventure includes a road trip: 

Pack an emergency kit: 

• Jack, wrench, jumper cables 
• First aid kit, water, snacks 
• Torch and spare batteries 
• Phone charger and basic tools 

Plan your route: Use apps or old-school maps to locate petrol stations, rest stops, and any scenic spots you don’t want to miss. It’ll save you stress – and petrol. 

Clean your car: Trust us, a tidy car is a happy car. You’ll feel more organised and comfortable, especially on long drives. 

Watch your weight: Overloading your car can hit fuel efficiency and put extra stress on tyres and suspension. Pack smart and spread the load evenly. 

Summer road trips often mean bringing along your animal family, which is so much fun. But just like people, pets need a bit of preparation to ensure a smooth, safe journey. 

Here are some quick tips for travelling with pets: 

• Secure them properly. Use a pet seatbelt, carrier, or barrier to keep them safe and prevent distractions while driving. Airbag could harm pets in the event of an accident, so it’s best to secure them in the back or the boot if you can. 
• Keep them cool and hydrated. Never leave pets alone in a parked car (even for a few minutes) – temperatures can skyrocket fast. Bring plenty of water and offer regular drinks and breaks. 
• Plan pet-friendly stops. Look for rest areas or parks where your pet can stretch their legs and do their business. 
• Protect their paws. Hot tarmac can burn sensitive paw pads. Try to walk your pet on grass or shaded areas during breaks. 
• Pack pet essentials. Don’t forget water, food (and bowls), toys, blankets, and a leash or harness. 

With a little prep, your pet’s summer adventures will be just as fun and safe as yours! 

Take care of yourself too. Stay hydrated, take regular breaks to stretch your legs, and swap drivers if possible. Tired drivers make mistakes – give yourself the best chance of a safe, chilled-out trip. 

If you’re unsure about any part of your car’s summer prep, we’re here to help. Book a service or summer health check at SERE Motors Belfast or Lisburn, and we’ll make sure your vehicle is good to go.