The grip of the heatwave shows no sign of easing. We are in the heart of the fourth heatwave of the year and the week just started will be characterized by prolonged and intense atmospheric stability, with temperatures well above seasonal averages, increasing humidity levels, and possible peaks of 40 degrees in the inland areas of the central regions and in the plains. And “the heat – as stated by the president of Federcarrozzieri Davide Galli – represents an enemy for our cars.” Many parts of cars could suffer damage due to extreme temperatures, starting with the tires. The scorching asphalt, which during intense heat days can exceed 60 degrees, accelerates wear and reduces tread grip. But the heat also expands the air inside the tires, increasing pressure and, consequently, the risk of blowouts. The cost of replacing a tire is unpredictable and depends on size, model, and product quality, but can vary on average between 50 and 150 euros.
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Battery and engine
Even more costly is replacing the car battery, a procedure that can cost between 100 and 250 euros, including installation. And the battery is another component put at risk by the scorching temperatures. As Federcarrozzieri explains, heat speeds up the self-discharge process of this component, which will progressively lose efficiency due to fluid evaporation. The record heat also puts pressure on the engine, increasing the risk of overheating, compromising the cooling system’s efficiency, and causing a decrease in the viscosity of the lubricating oil. The thermo-mechanical stress caused by the heatwave can lead to the expansion of the engine’s metal components. The repair to restore it can cost from 2,500 to 8,000 euros, depending on the type of overhaul – partial or complete – and based on the vehicle model and choice of spare parts.
The cabin and external surfaces
But the heat – which can bring temperatures inside the cabin to reach 70 degrees – also contributes to the premature wear of the materials composing the dashboard and to the aging and fading of textile coverings and seats, with estimated damages between 200 and 4,000 euros.
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Ultraviolet rays also deteriorate the external surfaces of cars, from the protective coating of the bodywork to the headlights, including the paint, which can lose brightness and color intensity. Repainting the bodywork, as Federcarrozzieri points out, costs between 150 and 600 euros per single piece, while a complete repaint can reach 4,000 euros for large vehicles.
Precautions
According to Galli, it is essential that drivers take some precautions to avoid having to resort to costly repairs. It is important above all to “regularly check tire pressure (when cold).” Checking the tread condition to recognize any deterioration is also essential.
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