In mid-summer, the car has already passed the first serious stage of the season. Several longer trips, hot days in the city, more frequent use of the air conditioner. At first glance, this is normal use, especially for Volkswagen cars, which are often chosen for daily driving. However, it is at this point that it is worth stopping to see if the car has begun to show minor changes. According to LLLParts specialists, in the middle of summer, not sudden failures are often noticed, but smaller signs.
Cooling system after hot days
First of all, the cooling system is loaded. When driving in the country, the air flow helps the radiator, but in the city, the situation is different. The car moves slowly, the engine is running, and the fan has to compensate for what the natural movement of air does not do. If there is a weak spot in the cooling system, summer often highlights it. It could be an ageing hose, a leaky connection, or a cap that no longer holds the pressure it should. Sometimes the first thing a driver sees is not a puddle under the car, but barely visible traces of dried coolant. A small sign, but it should not be ignored. In Volkswagen Golf, Passat or Tiguan models, the cooling system often works quite intensively, especially when driving in the city.
The air conditioner is not always the only one to blame
When the cabin is too warm, the first thought is usually about the air conditioner. If it is cooling less, simply top up the system. Sometimes this is enough. However, LLLParts experts remind you that a lack of refrigerant can only be a consequence, especially if there is a small leak in the system. There are simpler reasons. A clogged cabin filter reduces air flow, which is why the air conditioner seems to be working poorly. In the summer, the filter quickly collects dust, especially after trips on gravel roads or dry country roads. Sometimes the problem is not in the compressor or the refrigerant. It’s just that the air can’t get into the cabin freely. Therefore, before looking for a more complex fault, it’s worth starting with simple things. Filter, air flow, smell in the cabin. This is a small check, but it can save you from unnecessary repairs.
Suspension, brakes and tyres after the first trips
In the summer, the car is often driven more. This is not necessarily a heavy load, but it is repeated. Passengers, luggage, and a longer stretch of highway. After several such trips, you may hear a slight clatter or a slight vibration when braking. Such signs are sometimes attributed to the road surface. And sometimes the surface is really to blame. But if the sound is repeated, it’s worth checking the suspension. The same applies to the brakes. One hotter wheel after a trip may indicate a sticking calliper or another problem that will not go away on its own. According to LLLParts specialists, in the middle of summer, it’s also worth paying attention to tyre wear.
All the parts for your Volkswagen vehicle can be found here: https://www.lllparts.co.uk/volkswagen-parts
