2025 Summer Driving Tips for UK Motorists

Essential Advice for Safer, Smoother Journeys in Hot Weather

As temperatures rise and millions of UK drivers prepare for summer holidays, staycations and day trips, now is the perfect time to give your car some seasonal attention. Whether you're driving an Audi, Volkswagen or Honda, summer conditions can affect vehicle performance, tyre pressure, and overall safety.

At Drift Bridge Group, we want to ensure you and your passengers — including pets — stay safe and comfortable this summer. Here are our top summer driving tips for 2025, tailored for UK roads and weather.

1. Check Your Tyre Pressure (Including the Spare)

Warmer weather causes air in your tyres to expand. Driving with over-inflated or under-inflated tyres reduces grip and fuel efficiency, and increases the risk of a blowout.

• Check pressures when tyres are cold
• Use your car manual or door sticker for correct PSI
• Don’t forget the spare if you have one

Many Audi, VW and Honda models now feature tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), but it’s still worth a manual check before long drives.

2. Top Up Coolant and Screen wash

Summer traffic jams and long journeys can cause engines to overheat, especially if coolant levels are low. Always check:

• Coolant reservoir for proper level
• Screen wash with bug remover for clearer visibility
• Air conditioning functionality for passenger comfort

Genuine Honda, Volkswagen and Audi coolant and summer screen wash are available at Drift Bridge Group servicing centres.

3. Inspect Your Air Conditioning System

With UK heatwaves becoming more common, a working air conditioning system is essential. If it’s blowing warm air, smelling musty, or not cooling evenly, it may need a regas or filter replacement.

• Book a summer air con check
• Consider cabin air filter replacement
• Use recirculation mode in extreme heat

Air con servicing available at Epsom Audi, Walton Audi, Gatwick Honda and Drift Bridge Volkswagen.

4. Pack Smart for Summer Journeys

A well-prepared car can prevent holiday headaches. Always carry:

• Sunglasses for glare reduction
• Water and snacks in case of delays
• Pet travel accessories (harness, water bowl, sunshades)
• A charged power bank or in-car charger

Volkswagen, Audi and Honda offer official summer accessories — ask us for options tailored to your model.

5. Watch Out for Glare and Melting Road Surfaces

Summer sun can cause reduced visibility and softened tarmac, particularly on rural routes.

• Keep your windscreen clean inside and out
• Replace worn wipers
• Slow down on poorly maintained or shiny surfaces

Driving an EV like the VW ID.4 or Honda e:Ny1? Regenerative braking may respond differently in heat — take time to adjust.

6. Plan Ahead for Holiday Traffic

With more UK families staying local this year, expect congestion around coastal towns and national parks.

• Use live traffic apps
• Check your route for EV charge points
• Keep your fuel tank topped up

Audi MMI Navigation Plus and VW’s Discover Pro system offer live traffic integration — keep software up to date for the best results.

7. Book a Summer Health Check at Drift Bridge Group

We offer multi-point vehicle health checks for peace of mind ahead of long summer drives. Our technicians will inspect:

• Tyres, brakes and fluid levels
• Air conditioning and filters
• Battery condition
• Software updates (EV and hybrid models)

Book online or contact Epsom Audi, Walton Audi, Gatwick Honda or Drift Bridge Volkswagen to schedule yours today.

Final Thoughts

Summer driving should be enjoyable — not stressful. With just a few simple checks and the right preparation, you can ensure safe, efficient journeys no matter your destination.

Whether you're behind the wheel of an Audi Q5, Volkswagen Tiguan or Honda CR-V, our team is here to help keep your car in top condition this summer.