Summer driving tips

Stay hydrated and protected from the heat

• Stay hydrated and protected from the heat Australian summers can bring scorching temperatures and intense sunlight.

• Keep drinking water in the car, and use sunshades to protect your vehicle’s interior.

Keep informed about bushfires in your area

• Australia is prone to bushfires in summer, which can cause poor air quality, reduced visibility, and road closures.

• If driving through a smoky area, turn on your headlights, close air vents and windows, and look for alternative routes away from the smoke.

Beware of wildlife on the road

• Drive cautiously, especially during dawn and dusk when wildlife is more active.

• Animals will often approach roads looking for water and food.

• Pay attention to road signs indicating wildlife-prone areas and use high beams at night in safe conditions to spot animals on the road.

Be prepared for flash flooding

• Avoid driving through flooded areas, as even shallow water can pose a significant risk.

• Read more about what to do if you're driving in a flooded area in our Emergency Information Hub.

Electric Vehicle (EV) specific tips

• EV charging speed might slow in very hot conditions. Some EVs and charging stations have systems in place to manage this automatically.

• You can precondition the interior temperature while your vehicle is still plugged in to help cool down the cabin without draining the EV battery.

• Hot weather can affect the estimated range of an EV due to increased use of air conditioning.

Maintain your regular service schedule

• Fleet vehicle drivers should always ensure routine maintenance is completed.

• If you have any concerns regarding the drivability of your vehicle, book it into a dealership or service centre to be inspected. On the road, you can always contact Custom Fleet’s roadside assistance for support on 1300 139 555.

Downloads

You can download our summer driving tips in PDF form.