Longer days, warmer roads, and that familiar itch to just… drive. Whether you're heading for the NC500, lining up a trackday, or simply commuting through sticky traffic, summer puts every part of your car to the test.
This quick shakedown checklist will help you stay ahead of the heat – so the only thing getting in your way is a queue of caravans doing 35 in a 60.

Feeling hot and bothered isn’t something that just affects us Brits, your engine feels it too – especially if it's a modern, direct-injection turbocharged one. If it’s been a while since your last oil change, now’s a good time to get it sorted. Synthetic oils cope far better with heat, especially if you’ve got a tuned engine or tend to drive a little… enthusiastically.
We’ve seen more than a few trackday regulars come in after pushing their cars hard in 25°C+ heat, and fresh oil made a noticeable difference in not just temps and throttle response, but performance.
Don’t just take our word for it; Fifth Gear actually did a test in which they timed a Golf R32 from 0-100mph, performed an oil change, then saw an incredible 0.7 seconds cut off the time.
They also discovered that after just 10,000 miles, the original oil was 15 percent less viscous than new.
Watch the full clip: Used VS New Oil in your Car – it’s a perfect demonstration of just how much difference fresh oil can make. ML Performance carries trusted names like Millers, Castrol, Shell and Liqui Moly - suitable for all major car manufacturers.
2. Coolant – Don’t Let It Boil Over

Like oil, cooling systems get pushed to their limit in summer. If your coolant level’s low or the fluid’s gone murky, it’s not something to ignore. Overheating remains one of the biggest car killers in the UK, and nine times out of ten, it's down to neglect.
A proper flush and refill, especially with performance coolant or additives, can make a real difference in lowering peak temps on warm days. The last thing you need is to be enjoying your favourite stretch of B-road and the ECU starts pulling timing because of spiking temperatures.
3. Tyres – Under Pressure

You probably already know this, but it’s worth repeating: hot weather affects tyre pressure. A lot. And it doesn’t take much for that to start messing with grip and braking – even the handling balance of the car.
Nobody likes a tyre-kicker, but in summer it's always best to check pressures more frequently, and when you do, try and ensure your tyres are cold. Keeping a pressure gauge in the car always comes in handy, especially on a track day.
In need of new tyres? We’re currently offering up to 35 percent off trusted brands such as Michelin.
4. Air Con – Because Driving in a Sauna Isn’t Fun

There’s nothing worse than flipping on the air-con on a roasting day… and getting a sad puff of lukewarm air. Most systems lose gas over time, it creeps out slowly and often goes unnoticed.
A simple re-gas brings things back to life. And here’s a tip: run your A/C every so often in winter too. It keeps the seals from drying out and helps the system stay healthier overall.
5. Paint Protection – Because UV’s a Silent Killer

Your paint’s getting hammered all summer – not just by sun, but also bugs, road grime, and bird gifts. A good ceramic coating, sealant or even a quick spray wax goes a long way toward preserving your bodywork.
We’ve got go-to favourites from trusted brands like Autoglym, Sonax and Chemical Guys. A few minutes of prep now can save you from hours of scrubbing later. And yes, it also makes cleaning off bug splatter way easier.
Check out our recent handy guide to washing your car during a hosepipe ban if you’re inflicted.
6. Quick Detailer – Cheat Code for a Clean Look
No time for a full detail? You’re not the only one. A quick detailer or spray wax is a cheat code that gives a just-washed look with minimal effort. If you’re heading to a car meet or just want your pride and joy looking fresh on a Sunday morning coffee run, this is the one product to have stored in the boot.
Final Thought: Don’t Let the Heat Win
Summer's tough on cars. Fluids thin out, tyres swell, paint suffers, and cooling systems work overtime. But with a bit of prep, you’ll avoid the common headaches and keep your car feeling sharp.
Need help choosing the right oil, coolant, or detailing gear? Our online human – not bot – agents can guide you toward making the correct purchase for your car, giving total peace of mind.
Best of all, ML Performance currently has a Mid Summer MEGA Sale on, with huge savings to be had: