Drivers across the UK are being urged to fill up their cars with petrol before Wednesday as weather conditions are forecast to hot up again. While a fairly cool start to the week is on the cards, the weather is expected to become predominantly dry from the middle of next week, particularly in the south, with temperatures turning warmer from Tuesday, July 8, onwards. The national forecaster says throughout the second half of next week, so from Wednesday, July 9, temperatures will increase, “becoming warm or very warm once again”. The south of the country is expected to get the best of the weather, with highs of 27C forecast in London on Wednesday, climbing higher still on Thursday to 28C.
While households are advised to take measures to stay safe and cool in the heat, including drinking plenty of fluids and keeping windows and doors closed, those who are planning a journey in their car next week should ensure they fill up their petrol tank before Wednesday when temperatures hot up.
During a heatwave, petrol and diesel run down more quickly than normal because cars use more fuel in hot conditions. It means your fuel gauge may not give a proper indication of how much petrol or diesel you actually have left as levels drop a lot more quickly than usual.
So if you only have low levels of petrol or diesel in your car before you set off on a journey, you can run the risk of breaking down. As such, it’s best to top up your tank so you know you have enough to get you where you need to go.
Experts at Car Finance 247 said: “Your fuel gauge can be misleading in hot weather. During the summer, your fuel levels can drop faster than usual so your normal estimations might not be right.
“To avoid being stranded on the side of the motorway with the sun beating down on you, err on the side of caution and don’t let your fuel levels get too low before filling up again.”
Experts at PassMeFast.co.uk add: “When the weather’s nice and warm, your car’s fuel levels drop a lot quicker than usual. This means you can’t rely on your normal estimations of how much time you have left before needing to fill up.
“To avoid getting stuck in the middle of nowhere, or at the centre of a traffic jam on a hot day (both nightmare scenarios), make sure you head to the petrol station in good time. Playing it close to the line is just not worth it if the sun’s out!”
The RAC adds that drivers should check both their petrol and oil levels before setting off on a journey in hot weather to ensure it’s at a sufficient level and to avoid breakdowns.
It says: “Ensure you have enough fuel for your journey. Cars use more fuel in heavy traffic and start/stop conditions which can be regular occurrences, especially in warm weather.”
“To avoid engine damage and a potential breakdown, remember to check your oil level and top up when necessary to reduce the chances of overheating in traffic.”