A DRIVING expert has revealed tips to avoid a summer car breakdown and claims it could save you THOUSANDS.
As holiday season begins and many of us head away on long drives, motorists are being warned to prepare their cars to make sure they don’t break down in the summer heat.
Handily, car experts at the RAC have shared the most common car problems this summer and how to avoid them.
Battery-related problems
The RAC says: "Batteries are the number one offender for causing a summer breakdown.
"Car batteries have a hard time in winter, but summer can be a little easier on them."
To prevent this car problem, drivers should consider replacing it before a long summer trip.
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Three-year replacement cycles are a good rule of thumb, as problems can set in once batteries get to four or five years of age.
Tyres
For some drivers, the annual holiday is the longest trip they'll take in their car all year.
This can soon highlight any lurking issues with tyres.
Cracked, aged rubber may just cope with a run to the shops but might rapidly fail if subjected to more intensive use.
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The RAC recommends checking the condition of your tyres and the pressure before embarking on a long journey.
Punctures without a spare
Believe it or not, the third on the list is actually attending callouts where someone has had a puncture, but their vehicle doesn't have a spare.
A puncture can happen at any time – but with many motorists covering hundreds of miles, it can be more likely to happen during the holidays.
The RAC says: "How to prevent this one is pretty straightforward – check if your vehicle has a spare tyre before you set off."
Clutch
Your clutch can take a real beating in the summer.
Busier roads mean they will be used more in slow-moving traffic, while driving on unfamiliar roads in remote locations also takes its toll.
The RAC recommends: "Firstly, familiarise yourself with your route and the local roads around your holiday destination."
"Secondly, if you are towing, you need to prepare and ensure your car has the right towing capacity for your caravan or trailer."
Alternator
Alternator replacements aren't cheap, and fitting a new alternator is not the work of a moment.
The RAC says: "Often, you'll need a new drive belt on top, adding further expense.
"A RAC patrol will be able to recover you to a garage for it to carry out the repair work, but be warned: it's not an immediate fix."
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This comes after a car expert revealed important towing safety tips that motorists need to know before summer.
Plus, a car expert has revealed seven summer driving mistakes that could land you a fine of up to £5,000.
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