For many Australians, the holiday season means packing the car, loading up the family and hitting the road. Whether you’re heading away for a long coastal break, visiting relatives interstate or towing a caravan for a few weeks of exploring, summer road trips place extra strain on your vehicle, especially its cooling system.

High temperatures, long driving hours, heavy loads and stop-start holiday traffic all increase the risk of overheating. Unfortunately, cooling system issues are one of the most common causes of roadside breakdowns during the warmer months.

That’s why a simple check before you travel can make the difference between a smooth holiday and being stuck on the side of the road.

Why Summer Is Tough on Your Cooling System

Your radiator and cooling system work constantly to keep engine temperatures within a safe range. In summer, that job becomes much harder due to:

• Extreme ambient heat
• Long highway drives at sustained speeds
• Heavy loads from luggage, camping gear or trailers
• Increased use of air conditioning
• Slow-moving holiday traffic

If any part of the cooling system is worn, blocked or leaking, it may cope during short local trips but fail under holiday conditions.

Common Cooling System Problems That Show Up on Holidays

Many drivers don’t realise there’s an issue until they’re well into their trip. Some of the most common problems include:

Low or Contaminated Coolant
Coolant that’s low, old or diluted won’t protect your engine properly. This can lead to overheating, corrosion and internal damage.

Blocked or Failing Radiators
Over time, radiators can become blocked with internal corrosion or external debris. Reduced airflow or coolant flow means heat can’t escape effectively.

Perished Hoses and Clamps
Rubber hoses harden and crack with age. Under summer pressure and heat, weak hoses can split without warning.

Faulty Thermostats or Fans
A thermostat that sticks or a cooling fan that doesn’t engage can quickly cause temperature spikes, particularly in traffic or when towing.

Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Before you head off, or even during your trip, watch for these red flags:

• Temperature gauge creeping higher than normal
• Steam or sweet smells coming from under the bonnet
• Coolant puddles under the vehicle
• Dashboard warning lights
• Air conditioning suddenly blowing warm air

If you notice any of these, it’s best to stop driving and have the vehicle checked. Continuing to drive an overheating car can result in severe engine damage.

Simple Checks Before You Hit the Road

A few basic checks can significantly reduce your risk of holiday breakdowns:

• Check coolant levels (only when the engine is cold)
• Inspect hoses for cracks, bulges or softness
• Make sure the radiator is free from bugs, leaves and debris
• Confirm the cooling fan operates correctly
• Ensure recent servicing hasn’t overlooked the cooling system

If your vehicle hasn’t had its cooling system inspected in a while, a professional assessment is a smart investment before long-distance summer driving.

Trust Local Experts Who Know Cooling Systems

When it comes to radiators and engine cooling, experience matters. Red Devil Radiators specialises in radiator repairs, replacements and cooling system servicing for all types of vehicles — from daily drivers to performance cars and classic vehicles.

A properly maintained cooling system helps:

• Prevent overheating and breakdowns
• Protect your engine from costly damage
• Improve overall vehicle reliability
• Give you peace of mind on long holiday drives

Enjoy the Holidays Without the Stress

The best holiday road trips are the ones you don’t have to think twice about. By making sure your radiator and cooling system are ready for summer conditions, you’re giving your car the best chance to handle the heat, no matter how far you travel.

Before you head off this holiday season, consider having your cooling system checked by the specialists at Red Devil Radiators. It’s a simple step that could save your holiday, your engine and your wallet.