How to Care for Your Car in a Heatwave

If you've checked the weather forecast this week, you'll know Perth is in for some serious heat. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe heatwave warnings across Western Australia, with temperatures expected to climb into the low to mid 40s in some areas. This heatwave is part of a broader system sweeping across the country, and it's set to stick around for several days.

While we're all focused on staying cool ourselves, it's easy to forget that your car is working overtime too. When the mercury climbs this high, your vehicle's cooling system, battery, tyres, and air conditioning all face extra strain. The good news is that a little preparation can go a long way in helping your car handle the heat and keeping you safe on the road. Here's what you can do right now to protect your vehicle during this week's extreme conditions.

Check Your Coolant Before the Hottest Days Hit

Your engine's cooling system is the first line of defence against overheating, and it's working hardest during heatwave conditions like we're experiencing this week. Coolant circulates through your engine to regulate temperature, and if levels are low or the fluid is old and contaminated, your engine could be at serious risk.

Take a moment today to check your coolant reservoir. It's usually a translucent plastic tank near the radiator with "min" and "max" markings on the side. If the level is below minimum, top it up. If it's been more than two years since your last coolant flush, or if the fluid looks dark and murky, it's worth booking a service to have it replaced with fresh coolant.

Important: Always wait until your engine has completely cooled down before checking coolant levels. Opening a hot radiator cap can cause serious burns from escaping steam. First thing in the morning or after your car has been parked for a few hours is the safest time to check.

Make Sure Your Air Conditioning Is Ready for the Heat

With temperatures pushing past 40 degrees this week, your air conditioning isn't a luxury. It's essential for safe, comfortable driving. If you've noticed your A/C hasn't been as cold as it used to be, now is the time to address it before conditions get even more extreme.

A weak A/C system often means the refrigerant level is low or there's a blockage somewhere in the system. Our technicians can check refrigerant levels, inspect for leaks, and clean out any buildup that might be reducing efficiency. It's a small investment that makes a big difference when you're sitting in traffic on a 42 degree afternoon.

Quick tip: When you first get into a hot car, open all the windows and doors for a minute to let the worst of the heat escape before turning on the air conditioning. This helps your A/C cool the cabin faster and puts less strain on the system.

Park Smart This Week

Where you park makes a huge difference during a heatwave. A car left in direct sunlight can heat up to 60 degrees or more inside, which isn't just uncomfortable. It can damage your dashboard, crack leather seats, and put extra strain on your battery and other components.

Keep an Eye on Your Engine Oil

Engine oil lubricates all the moving parts inside your engine and helps dissipate heat. During extreme heat like we're seeing this week, your engine runs hotter than usual, which means oil is working overtime to keep everything running smoothly.

Check your oil level using the dipstick when the engine is cool. If it's below the minimum mark or looks dark and gritty rather than amber and smooth, it's time for a change. Fresh oil at the right level is one of the best things you can do for your engine's health during a heatwave.

Your Battery Feels the Heat Too

Most people associate flat batteries with winter, but extreme heat can be just as damaging. High temperatures speed up chemical reactions inside your battery, causing the fluid to evaporate and leading to corrosion on the terminals. During a prolonged heatwave like this one, that stress adds up quickly.

If your battery is more than three years old, it's worth having it tested. Look for signs of corrosion (white or greenish buildup around the terminals) and clean it off carefully if you spot any. A failing battery in 40 degree heat can leave you stranded at the worst possible time.

Check Your Tyre Pressure

Hot road surfaces and high ambient temperatures cause the air inside your tyres to expand. If your tyres are already overinflated, this extra pressure can increase the risk of a blowout. Underinflated tyres generate more friction and heat, which also creates problems, especially on scorching bitumen.