The New Zealand Automobile Association (AA) has given some top tips on how motorists can avoid their car overheating during hot summer days.
As many New Zealanders head off for an extended road trip, vehicle cooling systems are placed under more stress.
AA Motoring Advisor Cade Wilson says the radiator and hoses are the parts of the car likely to cause problems and should be checked for weaknesses and blockages.
"In particular the radiator and hoses are key things likely to create problems if not regularly checked for any weakness and blockages.
"A blocked radiator can cause cooling system temperatures to soar, perished and brittle radiator tanks can crack and explode under pressure, hoses can split and cause the vehicle to lose all its coolant," Mr Wilson says.
Preventative maintenance is key
"Regular servicing, which includes cooling system fluid changes and filling with the correct amount of Antifreeze/corrosion inhibitor will help minimise cooling system degradation.
"Cooling systems usually corrode from the inside out, so it’s important to maintain the fluid," Mr Wilson says.
The AA also warns that extended hill climbing in a loaded vehicle with known heating issues will magnify the problem and it's best to avoid these trips or stop halfway up to allow the vehicle to cool.
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