DGT warns of extreme heat risks for cars: batteries, tires, and driver fatigue

The Spanish Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) has issued urgent warnings about the dangers of driving during extreme heatwaves. Interior temperatures can reach 80–90 °C within half an hour, turning the cabin into an oven Source: abc.es. Asphalt can soar to 60 °C Source: abc.es or even around 70 °C Source: elconfidencial.

Key risks to vehicles

• Batteries: DGT warns that at 40 °C a new battery can discharge rapidly, as it is designed for optimal performance at 25 °C Source: elconfidencial.
• Tires: Asphalt heat accelerates wear; tires are the second most common breakdown cause after batteries, according to RACE data Source: elconfidencial. Proper pressure under load is critical Source: abc.es.
• Air conditioning and cooling: Systems must be checked to avoid overheating, especially in older cars Source: elconfidencial.

Driver safety

Heat acts as a narcotic, increasing fatigue and reaction times. The DGT recommends stopping every 200 km or two hours Source: abc.es. Avoid driving during the hottest midday hours.

Both sources stress that preventive maintenance—inspecting tires, battery, coolant, and A/C—before a long trip is essential to avoid breakdowns and accidents. The DGT notes that breakdowns rise up to 8% between June and August Source: abc.es.