Heatwave warning to Portugal’s drivers: check three key components

Drivers in Portugal are being urged to carry out basic vehicle checks as temperatures climb above 30°C across much of the country.

Automotive specialists warn that extreme heat can affect safety and, reliability, not to mention driving comfort.

Vehicle maintenance company Euromaster Portugal says the recent shift in termperatures has increased pressure on several critical car components, particularly tyres, batteries and windscreen wipers.

The warning comes as many motorists prepare for weekend getaways/ longer holiday journeys, and forecasts predict a stultifying ‘heat dome’ starting next week, bringing very high temperatures indeed.

Tyres under pressure

Tyres are particularly sensitive to heat because higher temperatures increase the movement of air molecules inside the tyre, causing internal pressure to build.

According to Euromaster, incorrect tyre pressure can affect vehicle handling, braking performance and road grip – potentially compromising safety.

The company recommends checking tyre pressure at least once a month and ensuring it matches the manufacturer’s specifications.

Battery life

While battery problems are often associated with winter, experts warn that summer heat can also accelerate deterioration, especially when temperatures exceed 28°C.

Sudden temperature changes can increase the risk of unexpected battery failure, which may leave drivers stranded.

Advice here is to have your battery tested annually, albeit many batteries can fail without displaying ‘obvious symptoms’ beforehand.

Windscreen wipers

Windscreen wipers are another component frequently overlooked during dry weather.

Dust, dirt, insects and road debris can accumulate on the rubber blades during prolonged periods without rain, reducing visibility and compromising driving safety. The blades themselves can become cracked and essentially useless.

Euromaster recommends checking wiper blades ‘at least once a year’ and ensuring washer fluid levels are topped up.

With Portugal bracing for a stonker of a week ahead, automotive experts stress that ‘a simple vehicle inspection’ could help prevent breakdowns, improve road safety and avoid costly disruptions during the frantic holiday travel season.

Source: Executive Digest/ Euromaster

Natasha Donn

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.