While it might not seem like it, the summer is very much here - and many Foresters will plan to get away for a while for a domestic holiday. 

But while plenty of us love areas like Cornwall or the Lake District, they’re hardly ‘just around the corner’, so we’re likely going to take the car. 

Checking your car throughout the year is critical, but if you’re planning a trip like this, it’s even more important. 

With this in mind, automobile expert Vytas Palovis, VP of Growth at car parts marketplace Ovoko, has shared the most common issues to watch out for this summer to prevent running into problems with your vehicle.

He said: “While the summer months are perfect for longer car journeys, remember to follow these steps to help ensure your car remains reliable and safe this season.  

“The stark difference in weather conditions and temperature can greatly impact the performance of your car, especially the coolant level and brakes, so make sure that you are checking these regularly. 

“This can not only save you from costly repairs, but also from a potentially dangerous situation. Remember, these maintenance tips are essential throughout the entire year, and if you are unsure about any of these preparations, consult your car manual or speak to a professional.”

Keeping an eye on your car’s engine coolant is necessary to ensure that your car does not overheat, particularly in summer when the ambient temperature tends to be warmer.  

While your engine coolant level should not drop drastically, debris can accumulate over time from general use, which can turn the coolant a brown or muddied colour.

Coolant also becomes more acidic over time which can cause corrosive damage to the car’s cooling system and impact how effectively it cools the engine. 

Generally, the engine coolant should be drained and replaced every 30,000 miles as part of your car’s service. Make sure to consult the manual first as some models may be able to be left for longer. 

If your coolant level appears to be below the recommended fill levels, you can top this up yourself at home using the type of coolant recommended in your vehicle's manual. 

Wait until the engine has completely cooled before opening the bonnet and locating the coolant reservoir, otherwise you may be exposed to hot pressurised coolant when you remove the coolant cap. 

Ensure you are topping up your coolant reservoir to the max line before securing the cap back in place. If you regularly need to top up your engine coolant level, this can indicate a leak, which a mechanic will need to address.

Ambient temperature increases can raise tyre pressure, which, when combined with increased heat from contact with the road, can increase pressure and the chances of a blowout.

Maintaining optimal tyre pressure can prevent flat tyres or blowouts and help maximise fuel efficiency on long trips. 

As well as your primary tyres, it’s wise to check the air pressure of your spare tyre to ensure it will be reliable in case of an emergency. 

Warmer weather can increase the wear and tear on your tyres, so check for any cracks and bulges, and listen out for any noises that occur as you drive.  

Ensure that your tyres meet the legal minimum limit of 1.6 millimetres across the central three-quarters of the tyre tread. 

Following an especially cold winter, remember to check your car's brake performance since warmer temperatures can impact their effectiveness. 

Aside from poor stopping, check for squealing or growling sounds, as well as any pulling or pulling to one side while you drive.

Check if your windscreen wiper blades need replacing. The warmer weather can cause the rubber on your wiper blades to deteriorate and become less effective at clearing your screen. 

As always, check if you need to fill your car’s water reservoir and the spray to the windscreen is effective. 

Long journeys from the Forest of Dean in some of the temperatures we’ve experienced can be awful, so it’s important to ensure your air conditioning is working properly. 

Not only does it aid in comfort for a long journey, but it can help keep the feeling of ‘heat fatigue’ at bay.

If it is not cooling effectively or is pushing out hot air, the refrigerant may need topping up or you may need to re-gas your air-con system with a specialist kit or at a garage. 

If possible, park your car in the shade to protect your car’s interior and paint exterior from sun damage. Consider using window shades if you are not able to park in the shade.

Whilst it may sound obvious, keeping your car clean is very important, but the interior during hot weather is particularly important - especially if you have little Foresters. 

Chocolate or sweets that may have been dropped in the car can melt and become sticky, all but ruining parts of the interior for good. 

Above all, prepare well for your journey. It’s wise to leave early in the morning to avoid both traffic, and the hotter times of the day, which can make driving more of a chore.

Ensure you have an emergency kit and plenty of provisions - and have a safe journey!