With the arrival of summer holidays, thousands of drivers in Portugal are preparing for long car travel, often under high temperatures and at times of greater effort for the engine. This is, according to the newspaper El Periódico, the period of the year in which more mechanical damage associated with heat are recorded, with consequences that can affect both safety and family budget. Whether on travel through the national territory or in international routes, prolonged exposure to extreme heat can accelerate the tear of essential components of the vehicle, forcing repairs whose cost can exceed 3,500 euros. To avoid unforeseen events, it is important to know the critical points to check before any prolonged exit during the summer months.
Battery: The heat accelerates the wear and may require replacement
The first failure to deserve attention is the battery. Intense heat accelerates the aging of chemical components, promotes fluid evaporation and can result in overloads. In most cases, battery replacement is inevitable if a total failure occurs, with costs that can be between 100 and 300 euros.
Refrigeration System: Failures can result in serious engine damage
According to the same source, the engine cooling system is often affected in summer. Overheating is often due to the low level of soda liquid or radiator and water pump failures. Ignoring these signs can lead to greater severity damage and expenses ranging from 70 to 800 euros.
Motor Transmission and Oil: Losses can exceed 3,500 euros
According to the source mentioned above, the high temperatures accelerate oil degradation, reducing its effectiveness and exposing the engine and transmission to excessive wear. In extreme situations, it may be necessary to replace expensive engine or gearbox parts, raising the invoice to values above 3,500 euros.
Air conditioning and tires: Other risks to consider on summer travel
Problems with the air conditioning system also increase in summer, says the same source. Gas leaks, broken compressors or overheat condensers can cost between 80 and 1,200 euros, depending on the severity of the malfunction. With regard to tires, heat favors pressure, rupture and rapid wear of rubber. An incident can cost between 100 and 800 euros.
Prevention: Experts recommend regular inspections and extra attention
To avoid unpleasant surprises during the holidays, experts advise preventive revisions and the use of automotive diagnostic technology. Monitoring of critical components such as battery, cooling system, engine oil, air conditioning and tires can be decisive to ensure a safe and startled trip.
It is also important to note that, in addition to economic losses, unexpected malfunctions can call into question the safety of occupants and ruin family holidays. It concludes that, at this time of year, prevention is the best strategy.
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