Common Car Parts That Struggle in the Heat
Australian summers can be brutal - not just for us, but for our cars too. Extreme heat puts extra stress on key components and if they’re not in top shape, the results can range from poor performance to full-blown breakdowns.
Before you hit the road this summer, it’s worth checking which parts of your vehicle are most vulnerable to heat damage - and how recycled parts can offer a quick, affordable solution if something fails.
At Sandgate Wreckers, we see these issues every year. Here’s what to keep an eye on when the temperature starts to climb.
Batteries
Car batteries are one of the first victims of summer heat.
High temperatures cause the water in the battery’s electrolyte to evaporate faster, which can damage internal cells and shorten battery life. In extreme cases, you might find your car struggling to start, even though it was fine a week ago.
Tips:
Park in shaded areas where possible.
Keep battery terminals clean and corrosion-free.
Get your battery voltage tested before long trips.
If your battery does give up the ghost, a tested recycled battery can be a reliable and budget-friendly replacement. All units at Sandgate Wreckers are checked for charge, condition and warranty before sale.
Radiators and Cooling Systems
Your cooling system works overtime during summer - especially in stop-start traffic or on long drives.
Radiators, hoses and thermostats can become weak from heat exposure or old age. When they fail, overheating happens quickly and can cause serious engine damage.
Watch for these signs:
Rising temperature gauge or “check coolant” warning.
Puddles of coolant under your car.
Steam from under the bonnet.
Replacing damaged hoses, radiator caps or thermostats with quality recycled parts can help you stay on the road safely without paying full retail prices.
Air Conditioning Systems
Few things test your patience like an air conditioner that stops working on a 35°C day.
Common summer A/C issues include refrigerant leaks, failing compressors, or blocked condensers. Heat and humidity can also make your system work harder, wearing components out faster.
Maintenance checklist:
Run your A/C for a few minutes each week to keep seals lubricated.
Check for unusual noises when the compressor kicks in.
Clean debris from the condenser in front of the radiator.
If your system needs a new compressor, condenser or blower motor, a recycled replacement from a reputable supplier like Sandgate Wreckers is a smart alternative - tested for functionality and backed by warranty.
Tyres
Hot roads can turn even good tyres into a risk.
Heat causes air inside your tyres to expand, increasing pressure and making blowouts more likely - particularly on long highway drives. Uneven wear or old rubber compounds make the problem worse.
Stay safe by:
Checking tyre pressure regularly (including your spare).
Inspecting tread depth and sidewalls for cracks or bulges.
Rotating tyres according to your manufacturer’s guidelines.
And if you need to replace one or two, used OEM tyres in good condition can help you save while maintaining safety standards.
Belts and Hoses
Rubber components like serpentine belts and radiator hoses expand and contract as the engine heats up. Over time, exposure to high temperatures makes them brittle and more likely to crack or split.
A snapped belt can leave you stranded without power steering, A/C or even battery charging - and hoses that burst mid-drive can cause instant overheating.
Prevention:
Inspect belts for fraying, glazing or cracking.
Squeeze hoses to check for softness or leaks.
Replace any part that looks worn before it fails.
Recycled OEM belts and hoses can be a quick, affordable replacement option, especially for older models where new parts are hard to source.
Fluids and Filters
Summer driving also affects your car’s essential fluids. Engine oil thins in high temperatures, reducing lubrication. Transmission and brake fluids can degrade faster. Dust and debris from dry conditions can clog air filters, reducing performance.
Before the heat hits:
Check and top up oil, coolant, brake and transmission fluids.
Replace old filters for better airflow and fuel efficiency.
Schedule a quick inspection before long trips.
Sandgate Wreckers can supply quality recycled or new filters for a wide range of makes and models - helping you prepare for holiday driving with confidence.
Electrical Components and Sensors
Modern cars rely heavily on sensors and electronics - and these don’t always cope well in high heat.
Excessive temperatures can cause wiring insulation to soften, connectors to loosen and sensors to fail intermittently. This can trigger warning lights, false readings or performance issues.
If your car suddenly throws an engine light during a hot day, it may not be a major fault - but it’s worth checking before it becomes one.
Sandgate Wreckers’ team can help source tested electrical components, ensuring compatibility with your vehicle’s make and model.
Stay Cool, Stay Safe, Stay Smart
Summer driving doesn’t have to mean unexpected breakdowns or expensive repairs. A few simple checks and access to reliable recycled parts can keep your car cool and comfortable all season long.
Whether you’re topping up your cooling system, replacing a worn belt, or refreshing your A/C, the team at Sandgate Wreckers can help you find what you need fast.
Call us today or visit our yard to talk to our experienced team about your next part replacement.
