Over 50,000 car breakdowns are expected over the next two days as heatwave wreaks havoc on UK roads
Seventeen cars will break down every minute amidst the school summer holidays
MORE THAN 50,000 cars will break down on Thursday and Friday, with warnings specifically given about overheating.
As the school summer holidays come into full swing many families are expected to be travelling long journeys in their cars.
Breakdown provider Green Flag is now advising motorists to check coolant and oil levels are correct before their trips.
When filling with coolant, make sure it is also not past its sell-by date as this could leave deposits in the engine and radiator which can lead to poor flow.
Do not open the radiator cap until the engine has cooled down as boiling coolant and steam can spray out.
If the car temperature gauge is close to going into the red, it is advised to turn the heating on hot and fans on full.
This will help cool down the coolant, although, be wary of overheating yourself!
The company also recommends turning off the engine whenever you get the opportunity to safely do so.
Stop-start technology will help with this when in traffic.
When driving under 50mph, engines have to work harder to pump out cool air, so rolling down the windows at slower speeds instead of using the air con may help.
Overloading a car with luggage can also put a strain on it, so packing as light as possible is advised.
MORE FROM MOTORS
Simon Henrick, Green Flag Head of News, said: “With the ongoing hot weather set to peak this week, it's important that drivers are fully aware of the effect that the heat can have on several of the car's key components, as well as the consequences it can have on the roads itself.
"Many of the problems that motorists will likely encounter are avoidable if drivers ensure that their vehicles are checked thoroughly before setting off on a long journey."