June days are longer, temperatures are up, and families have planned summer holidays, staycations, and weekend trips. With the Summer Solstice on 21st June bringing the longest day of the year, it's the perfect time to enjoy evening drives through the Surrey Hills, coastal getaways, and countryside adventures.

While you're looking forward to summer, your vehicle is preparing for a different challenge. Warm temperatures, stop-start traffic on the A23, busy stretches of the M25, and longer journeys can place significant strain on your car's cooling, braking, and tyre systems.

Before the school holidays begin and the summer rush starts, here are the essential checks every Surrey driver should carry out.

1. Is Your Air Conditioning Ready for Summer?

Few things are more uncomfortable than returning to a car that's been parked in the sun all day, only to discover the air conditioning is blowing warm air. Most vehicle manufacturers recommend an air conditioning re-gas approximately every two years to maintain optimum performance.

Why Air Conditioning Maintenance Matters

A properly functioning air conditioning system does far more than keep you comfortable:

• Delivers colder, cleaner air
• Helps reduce driver fatigue on longer journeys
• Removes moisture from the cabin
• Prevents windows from misting during sudden summer rain showers

If your air conditioning isn't cooling as effectively as it once did, a simple re-gas could restore its performance before the hottest days arrive.

2. Summer Tyres Need Attention Too

Many motorists associate tyre safety with winter driving conditions, but warm weather can be just as demanding on your tyres. As road temperatures rise, tyres work harder to maintain grip, stability, and safe braking performance.

Check Your Tread Depth

Although the UK legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, many experts recommend replacing tyres once tread falls below 3mm for optimal summer performance.

Benefits of healthy tread depth include:

• Improved braking distances
• Better grip during emergency manoeuvres
• Increased stability on motorways
• Reduced risk of aquaplaning during summer storms

Monitor Tyre Pressures

Tyre pressure changes with temperature. As the weather warms up, the air inside your tyres expands, potentially leading to over-inflation.

Over-inflated tyres can:

• Wear unevenly through the centre of the tread
• Reduce contact with the road surface
• Affect handling and braking performance
• Shorten tyre lifespan

Checking tyre pressures regularly throughout the summer helps maximise safety, fuel efficiency, and tyre longevity.

3. Don't Forget Your Cooling System

Summer traffic congestion is one of the leading causes of engine overheating.

Whether you're caught in slow-moving traffic on the M25 or navigating busy routes down the A303, your cooling system needs to be operating efficiently.

Common Causes of Engine Overheating

• Low coolant levels
• Coolant leaks
• Faulty thermostats
• Damaged radiator hoses
• Blocked radiators
• Cooling fan failures

Warning Signs to Watch For

• Rising temperature gauge
• Dashboard warning lights
• Steam from under the bonnet
• Sweet or burning smells
• Hissing noises after driving

Regular coolant checks can help prevent expensive repairs and roadside breakdowns during peak travel season.

4. The Surrey Hills Brake Check

Planning a trip to Box Hill, Leith Hill, or other scenic Surrey driving routes this summer?

Your brakes will be working harder than usual on steep descents and winding roads.

Signs Your Brakes Need Attention

• High-pitched squealing noises
• Grinding sounds
• Increased stopping distances
• Vibration through the brake pedal
• A soft or "spongy" brake feel

Brake fluid naturally absorbs moisture over time. During hot weather and heavy braking, this moisture can reduce braking effectiveness, a condition known as brake fade.

A simple brake inspection can identify issues before they become safety concerns.

If you have any worries about the safety of your car give Morley Auto Services in Redhill a call to book in.