As temperatures rise, so do the number of driving tips shared between friends, family and across social media.
Some are genuinely useful. Others have been repeated for so long that they’ve become accepted as fact – even when they’re not.
To help separate myth from reality, we’ve put seven common summer driving claims to the test.
1. Leaving your windows open is more fuel-efficient than using air conditioning
🟡 IT DEPENDS
At lower speeds, opening the windows instead of using the air conditioning can save a little fuel.
However, once you’re travelling at higher speeds – particularly on motorways – open windows create extra aerodynamic drag, which can actually reduce fuel efficiency. In those situations, using the air conditioning may be the better option.
The takeaway? Windows down around town, air conditioning on for faster journeys.
2. Parking in the shade helps protect your car
🟢 FACT
Whenever you can, choosing a shaded parking space is a smart move.
It helps keep the cabin cooler, reduces the amount of UV exposure your dashboard and seats receive, and can make your car much more comfortable when you return.
It won’t eliminate the effects of hot weather altogether, but it can certainly help.
3. Hot weather makes tyres more likely to burst
🔴 FICTION
Hot weather does increase the air pressure inside your tyres, but a well-maintained tyre shouldn’t suddenly burst just because the temperature has gone up.
Tyre blowouts are much more likely to be caused by underinflation, damage or excessive wear than by the weather alone.
Checking your tyre pressures regularly is one of the easiest ways to stay safe – especially before a long summer drive.
4. You should let your engine idle before setting off on a hot day
🔴 FICTION
Years ago, this advice made more sense for older vehicles.
Modern engines are designed to be driven soon after starting, so there’s generally no need to leave your car idling before you set off. In fact, driving gently for the first few minutes is often a better way to bring the engine up to its normal operating temperature.
5. Black cars are always much hotter than white cars
🟡 IT DEPENDS
It’s true that darker paint absorbs more heat from the sun than lighter colours.
However, the difference inside the cabin is often much smaller than people expect. Factors such as how long the car has been parked, whether it’s in direct sunlight and whether you’ve used a windscreen sunshade can all have a much bigger impact.
No matter what colour your car is, it’s always worth parking in the shade where possible.
6. Premium fuel gives you more power in hot weather
🔴 FICTION
For most drivers, premium fuel won’t make a noticeable difference during a heatwave.
Some high-performance cars are designed to run on higher-octane fuel, but for the vast majority of everyday vehicles, using premium fuel won’t suddenly improve performance or help your car cope better with the heat.
The best approach is simply to use the fuel recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
7. Hot weather can shorten your battery’s lifespan
🟢 FACT
Most people associate battery problems with freezing winter mornings, but heat can be just as damaging over time.
High temperatures speed up the chemical reactions inside a battery, which can cause it to deteriorate more quickly. If your battery is already getting older, a prolonged spell of hot weather could expose a weakness that wasn’t obvious before.
If you’ve noticed your car taking longer to start, it may be worth getting the battery checked before it lets you down.
Stay cool – and drive smarter
Summer is a great time to get out on the road, but it’s also a season when myths can spread just as quickly as the temperature rises.
Knowing which advice to trust can help you avoid unnecessary worry, keep your car running smoothly and enjoy every journey with confidence.
Whether you’re heading to the coast, visiting family or setting off on a last-minute adventure, Veygo gives you the flexibility to get on the road when it suits you – so you can focus on enjoying the drive, not the paperwork.
