How to Protect Your Car from Extreme Heat in India

It gets pretty hot in India. It's not uncommon for temperatures to reach 40°C to 48°C from April to June in many regions. From Rajasthan to Delhi to Maharashtra and Telangana, not only is driving problematic due to the extreme heat, but so is looking after your vehicle.

Whether you have a car or are driving one on hire for a holiday, here's how to keep your car safe in the heat.

1. Always Check Your Coolant

Your car's cooling system is your heat shield. Overheating is more likely to occur in low or old coolant, particularly on long trips or during traffic congestion. Before you take a summer trip, make sure you check the coolant level and top it up to the proper level. If the coolant is brown, it needs to be flushed. It's a good idea to store a bottle of coolant in the boot of the car for trips in summer.

2. Always Check Tyre Pressure

Air pressure increases in hot weather. When it's too hot, over-inflated tyres are more at risk of bursting, particularly on hot roads. Summer is the time to check your tyre pressure in the morning. Make sure you stick to the manufacturer's recommended PSI. And check for tyre cracks and wear – heat speeds up wear and tear.

3. Park in the Shade Whenever Possible

The heat from the sun can raise the temperature inside a car to 60°C to 70°C in just a few minutes. This can cause the dashboard and upholstery to fade, leather seats to crack, and even warped plastics. If you can, park in the shade of a tree or in a garage or car park, or use a reflective sunshade. It's not only better for your vehicle, but it will be more comfortable for you too.

4. Use a Windshield Sunshade

Reflective sunshades can cool the inside of your car by 10-15°C. It stops your dashboard and steering wheel from cracking under the sun's rays. They're cheap, readily available and the easiest way to care for your car in summer. Be sure to put one up every time you park outside.

5. Care for the Car Battery

The heat is one of the most common causes of a car battery going bad. This evaporates the electrolyte and places additional stress on parts. If your battery is older than two years, have it tested before summer. Don't leave devices such as phone chargers connected when the car is switched off – this will accelerate battery discharge in hot weather.

6. Check Engine Oil and Other Fluids

Engine oil not only lubricates the engine but also helps dissipate heat. Hot weather can accelerate oil degradation. Make sure to check and top up your oil level and ensure you're using the recommended engine oil grade for hot weather. Keep an eye on brake fluid, power steering fluid and windscreen washer fluid too – these fluids can also be impacted by the heat.

7. Don't Overwork Your Air Conditioning

If you turn on the full blast of AC the moment you start the car, the compressor will be put under stress, particularly during the hottest part of summer. Allow the car to air for a couple of minutes with the windows down. Use it at a moderate temperature rather than the coldest setting – this will help your compressor and save fuel. Also have your AC checked (if it hasn't been in recent months) before summer starts.

8. Don't Drive in the Midday Sun

From 12 noon to 4 PM, road temperatures between 50 and 60°C are not uncommon in Indian cities. This can lead to tyre bursts, engine overheating and damage. If you're travelling longer distances, try to drive in the early morning or late evening. This will be safer for your vehicle and more comfortable for you and your passengers.

9. Maintain a Clean and Covered Interior

Accumulated dirt and dust in the car insulate and hold heat. Keep the car clean, and cover your seats and dash. Go for light-coloured seat covers. These simple steps help ensure your car's interior lasts longer.

10. Get a Pre-Summer Checkup Done

Before the heat is on, get your car checked by a mechanic. Have them check the air conditioning, battery, tyres, belts, hoses and fluids. It's better to find and fix a problem in April rather than being stranded on the side of a motorway in May.

Planning a Summer Road Trip?

If you're planning a summer-long drive – be it a hill station break, family vacation or a weekend getaway – and you don't want to take the stress on your car, then Rentrip is worth checking out. Rentrip's self-drive car rentals in several Indian cities mean you can choose a high-quality car, drive at your leisure and enjoy the trip, without putting unnecessary stress on your own vehicle.

Final Thoughts

India's summers are fierce, but with some care, your vehicle can stand up to the heat. With proper maintenance, parking and driving practices, your car will stand a good chance of surviving the summer months. So don't wait until the heat gets too much – maintain your car now.

Stay cool and drive safe.