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Traffic accidents in Finland peak during the summer months, even though driving conditions and visibility are typically better. According to Statistics Finland, May and August 2024 saw the highest number of injury-causing accidents on Finnish roads.
Auto service chain Vianor says the rise in summer road accidents is partly due to heavier traffic and more roadworks, but also overlooked maintenance. Jarkko Jalava, head of car servicing at Vianor, offers three critical checks that can improve safety and reduce risks on summer roads.
1. Tyre pressure: small effort, big impact
“Tyres are the only point of contact between your car and the road. If you’re carrying extra weight, like on a summer holiday trip, tyre pressure becomes even more important,” Jalava explains.
Under-inflated tyres increase braking distances and make the vehicle harder to control, especially in sudden manoeuvres. They also increase the risk of blowouts and reduce fuel efficiency.
Recommended pressure values are usually found on a label inside the driver’s door or fuel cap. If not specified for heavy loads, increasing pressure by 0.2 bar is a safe rule of thumb. Always check pressure when tyres are cold — ideally at the start of a journey.
“Many drivers skip this step even though it’s quick, free and easy. Most petrol stations offer free air pressure checks,” Jalava adds.
2. Wheel alignment: stability and control
Poor wheel alignment affects more than just comfort. It can make the car pull to one side, reduce grip in corners, and increase the risk of losing control during emergency braking.
“Misaligned wheels are a safety risk many drivers don’t notice. You get used to the feel of the car, but correcting the alignment often makes a big difference. The car tracks straighter, feels more stable and requires less effort to steer,” Jalava says.
Uneven tyre wear is a telltale sign. Alignment must be checked and adjusted by professionals. Alongside safety, proper alignment improves fuel efficiency and extends tyre life.
“Bad alignment wears tyres faster and raises fuel use. So it’s not just about safety — it’s also about saving money,” Jalava notes.
3. Air conditioning: more than comfort
While often seen as a luxury, air conditioning also affects driver alertness.
“If refrigerant levels are low, cooling performance drops, and on hot days that can affect concentration. A well-functioning AC system keeps the driver focused and comfortable,” says Jalava.
Regular car servicing may not include AC checks or refrigerant refills, so it’s worth requesting a separate inspection before summer begins.
Other essentials to check before heading out
In addition to tyre pressure, alignment, and AC, Jalava recommends these basic checks:
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Tread depth: Summer tyres must have at least 1.6 mm, but grip begins to drop below 4 mm. The risk of aquaplaning increases significantly.
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Fluids: Check levels of motor oil, brake fluid, coolant, and windscreen washer fluid.
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Lights: Confirm that all lights work, including headlights, brake lights, indicators, and taillights, to stay visible.
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Visibility: Keep the inside of the windscreen clean to prevent fogging. Inspect and, if needed, replace worn wiper blades, especially after winter.
“Driving calmly and attentively is always essential,” Jalava concludes. “But a few simple checks before hitting the road can make a big difference for your safety and everyone else’s.”
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
