By Ben Scandrett
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June 27, 2025
Summer’s here, the sun is out—and while it’s the perfect time for road trips and adventures, it’s also a season that can quietly take a toll on your vehicle. At Advanced Vehicle Contracts, we help people lease the right car or van for their needs. But once you're on the road, it’s just as important to know how to look after your vehicle—especially during the warmer months. Rising temperatures can lead to higher running costs, increased wear and tear, and even unexpected breakdowns if you’re not prepared. Here are some simple tips to help you keep your car or van in top shape all summer long. 1. Tyre Pressure: Don’t Let Heat Cause a Blowout When the weather heats up, so does the air in your tyres—causing it to expand. That can lead to over-inflation, which reduces grip and causes tyres to wear down faster. On the other hand, under-inflated tyres can overheat and make your vehicle less fuel-efficient. Tip: Check tyre pressure every couple of weeks, especially before long journeys. Always check when tyres are cold for the most accurate reading, and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. 2. Air Conditioning: Use It Smarter, Not Harder Air con is a summer essential, but it comes at a cost—sometimes increasing fuel usage by up to 20%, particularly in stop-start traffic. That might not sound like much, but over time it adds up. Tip: Open your windows for a minute or two when you first get in to let hot air escape. Use the air con at a steady, comfortable temperature and turn it off once the cabin is cool. 3. Beat the Traffic Before It Beats Your Budget Summer often means more cars on the road—thanks to school holidays, public events, and roadworks. All that extra traffic can mean longer journeys, more time idling, and more fuel used. Tip: Plan your route ahead of time using apps with real-time traffic updates. If you’re stuck for more than a minute, switch off your engine—it saves fuel and reduces wear. 4. Give Your Vehicle a Summer Health Check Hot weather puts extra strain on your engine, battery, and fluids. Oil can degrade faster, coolant can run low, and older batteries might struggle in the heat. Tip: Use the change in season as a reminder to check the essentials—oil level and quality, coolant, tyre tread, and battery condition. If you’re leasing a car or van through us, keeping on top of maintenance also helps avoid potential end-of-lease charges. 5. Avoid Wasting Fuel on Unplanned Detours Detours to expensive petrol stations or getting caught in traffic can waste time and money. Planning ahead helps you avoid unnecessary stops and keeps your journeys smoother. Tip: Map out your refuelling stops if you're heading somewhere unfamiliar—and try to avoid last-minute fill-ups at premium-price forecourts. Keep Cool, Drive Smart Summer driving doesn’t have to mean extra stress. With a few simple habits and regular checks, you can enjoy the sunshine while keeping your car or van running at its best. Whether you’re leasing for business or personal use, Advanced Vehicle Contracts is here to help you get the most from your vehicle—every season of the year. Looking to lease your next car or van? Get in touch with our team for the latest offers and expert advice - 01926 422333