As the UK braces for temperatures reaching 40°C over the next 24 hours, Halfords is reminding motorists that car batteries are particularly vulnerable in extreme heat. The intense heatwave can cause internal damage to batteries, leading to unexpected failures on the road.
Four Warning Signs of Battery Trouble
Halfords advises drivers to look out for these four warning signs that their battery may be struggling:
- The car takes longer to start than usual
- Flickering lights or electrical glitches
- Recent need for a jump start
- The battery warning light is illuminated on the dashboard
Drivers whose batteries are already showing signs of wear are at higher risk of being stranded on the side of the road during a long drive in hot weather.
Tips to Protect Your Battery in the Heat
To help motorists keep their batteries in good condition, Halfords offers several practical tips:
- Park in the shade or a garage to protect the car from extreme heat
- Use a car cover if parking in direct sunlight for long periods
- Avoid short, stop-start journeys as they may not allow the battery enough time to recharge
- For non-sealed lead-acid batteries, top up electrolyte levels with high-quality deionised water, such as Halfords Battery Top-Up Water 1L
RAC Urges Caution on the Roads
For those planning long journeys, the RAC has urged road users to postpone all non-essential trips. RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis said: "Red extreme heat warnings are rare and we urge everyone to take them seriously this week. Drivers whose vehicles don't have effective air conditioning should strongly consider postponing any non-essential car journeys until the Met Office’s weather warnings are lifted and temperatures drop."
Dennis added: "If this isn’t possible, our best advice is to travel during cooler times of day. This is especially important for anyone travelling with vulnerable people, including young children and older adults, who are at greater risk from the intense heat. We'd also remind motorists never to leave pets inside a hot vehicle, as doing so can quickly become fatal."
