Beat the heat: how to keep your engine and cabin cool this summer

There’s a special kind of summer heat that only Australians understand. Think scorching buckles and beach-day dashes across hot sand. But it’s not just humans that struggle. Cars feel it too: engines, hoses and air conditioning work harder in extreme heat.

The good news? A few pre-summer checks and simple habits can reduce the chance of overheating or an inconvenient stop.

Keep your cool – literally

Your car’s cooling system does the heavy lifting during hot weather.. The radiator, coolant and hoses all work together to stop your engine from turning into a pressure cooker.

Before a long trip, check that the coolant level is topped up to the correct level and is a healthy colour (usually green, pink or orange). If it’s rusty or brown, book a coolant service.

Always use the coolant specified by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Avoid mixing different types, as combining them can trigger corrosion, leading to overheating and early engine wear.

Next, inspect radiator fins for bugs, leaves and dust. A soft brush or compressed air can clear blockages that reduce airflow. While you’re there, give the hoses a squeeze; if they feel brittle or swollen, replace them before the heat wave hits. 

Keep the cabin chill

No one likes returning to a car that feels like an oven. Simple changes can save you (and your passengers) from scorched seatbelts and molten steering wheels.

• Use a reflective sunshade on the windscreen. It’s not just about comfort; it can also help protect your dashboard from cracking.
• Park in the shade when possible, or angle the car so the sun hits the rear instead of the front.
• Crack the windows slightly to release trapped hot air, but only in secure areas.
• Keep a towel handy to drape over leather seats to protect against burns, especially if little ones or pets are along for the ride.

Keep your battery in top shape

Hot weather is tough on batteries, especially if the car has been idle. Even regular driving isn’t always enough to keep it fully charged after a flat. If your car’s been sitting for a while, give the battery a proper recharge before heading out. Heat, dirt and moisture can also take their toll, so make a habit of inspecting the case and cleaning the terminals to prevent corrosion and extend its life.

How to clean car air conditioning

If your AC is blowing warm or musty air, a simple clean can help. Here are some tips

, on how to freshen things up before the temperature soars. For more serious issues, book a professional AC service.

Step 1: Clean the cabin air filter

The cabin air filter blocks dust and debris from entering your car. You’ll usually find it behind the glove box. Remove it, inspect for dirt and either vacuum or wash it with mild detergent if it’s only slightly dirty. If it’s clogged or smelly, replace it with a new one.

Step 2: Clean the vents

Use a soft brush or vent-cleaning tool to loosen dust inside the vents, then spray a dedicated aircon cleaner or disinfectant to kill bacteria and banish odours. Turn the fan on high to flush out loose particles.

Step 3: Refresh the blower and evaporator
Dirt can gather around the blower motor and evaporator coil, causing stale smells. Vacuum around the blower, then use an aircon disinfectant spray through the intake vents to clean both components.

Step 4: Rinse the condenser
Pop the bonnet and gently hose down the condenser near the radiator airflow to clear dust and grime.

Run the system for 10–15 minutes to circulate clean air, and enjoy a cooler, fresher ride all summer.

By keeping your vehicle cool and road-ready, you’re not just protecting your engine; you’re helping ensure every journey this summer is a safe one.

_Disclaimer
^{Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd (“Viva Energy”) has compiled the above article for your general information and to use as a general reference. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken by Viva Energy in compiling this article, Viva Energy does not warrant or represent that the information in the article is free from errors or omissions or is suitable for your intended use.}