Summer’s here, and in the UK, that means longer days, warmer vibes, and the perfect chance for an epic road trip. Whether you’re rolling out for a seaside chill, a countryside escape, or a scenic cruise through national parks, a little prep work on your ride can turn potential pitfalls into smooth sailing.
From beating the heat to dodging bugs, summer brings a unique set of challenges for your car. Check out our guide on gearing up your ride for unforgettable summer road trips—so you can soak up the sun and enjoy the ride.
- Tyre Talk
Start from the ground up—literally! Your tyres are the only thing between your car and the road, so keeping them in top shape is a must—especially for those long summer hauls.
Here’s the lowdown:
- Tread depth: UK law says a minimum of 1.6mm, but 3mm is better for grip.
- Tyre pressure: Check your manual for the right PSI—underinflated tyres can overheat.
- Wear and tear: Look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear.
Hot roads and fast speeds can mean blowouts if tyres aren’t up to scratch. A quick check now can save you a pricey (and risky) hassle later.
- Fluid Up
Like you, your car needs to stay hydrated on those sunny escapades.
Keep an eye on:
- Engine oil: Keep it topped up and maybe freshen it up if it’s time.
- Coolant: Stops the engine from overheating, key for those long sunny drives.
- Brake fluid and screen wash: Keep them filled and ready to roll.
Pro tip: Pack some extra screen wash for topping up on the go—summer bugs can mess with your view!
- Shine On: Clean and Protect
A clean car doesn’t just look good—it stays good. Summer’s tough on paintwork with:
- Sun exposure
- Birdie bombs
- Tree gunk
- Bug guts
- Road grime
A solid wash before you head out clears away the nasties. The real magic? A ceramic coating or hydrophobic products from Gtechniq, which act like a shield. Their stuff is all about lasting protection and killer shine, perfect for that summer sparkle.
- Wheels and Trim Love
The bodywork gets all the love, but wheels and trim face summer’s wrath too—especially on those motorway miles.
Road tar, brake grit, UV, and water spots can wreck alloys and trims. That’s why Gtechniq’s got dedicated gear to keep these areas fresh. Their products make cleaning a breeze and stop fading, keeping your ride looking slick all summer long.
Check out Gtechniq’s wheel and trim products so every inch of your car is road-trip ready.
- Keep Cool with Interior Care
Summer drives turn sour if your car’s insides aren’t ready for the heat. Sun can fade seats, crack leather, and turn your interior into an oven.
Interior checklist:
- Vacuum and wipe: Clean out the dirt and dust.
- Fabric or leather protectors: They fend off spills and fade.
- Dash and trim: Use UV-resistant goodies to stop cracks and fading.
Consider window tints or sunshades if you’re parked in direct sun often. They keep things cool and safeguard interiors from harsh rays.
- Check Battery and Air Con
Nothing kills summer vibes like a dead battery or broken AC.
Heat strains your battery, especially if it’s old. Get it checked or swapped if needed—many places do free battery checks.
Same goes for AC—if it’s not icy, now’s the time to regas it. Comfort is key, especially with kids or pets on board.
- Stock Your Emergency Kit
Even with top prep, stuff can go sideways. Keep your emergency kit packed and easy to grab.
Include:
- Warning triangle
- High-vis vest
- First aid kit
- Torch
- Jump leads
- Phone power bank
- Extra screen wash and coolant
- Snacks and water
Also, double-check your breakdown cover—just in case.
- Map Your Adventure (and Your Playlist)
With your ride ready, get hyped for the trip. Plan your route, especially if you’re venturing into the sticks with scarce fuel stops.
Pro tip: Download offline maps and backup playlists or podcasts—signal can be sketchy in parts of the UK.
And leave space for picnic gear or swim stuff in the boot—you might stumble onto a hidden beach or scenic spot.
Final Word: Enjoy the Ride
Getting your car trip-ready isn’t just maintenance—it’s peace of mind. Knowing your car can handle the heat and distance means you can kick back and enjoy the drive.
A little care now pays off big time, from fuel and comfort to capturing those epic holiday shots.
With Gtechniq’s top-notch detailing products, UV protection, and cleaning solutions, keeping your car looking and feeling its best this summer is a breeze.
So grab the sunnies, fuel up, and let the road trip adventures roll.
