It seems the hot weather caused more damage to cars than you might think. The RAC has reported that there were nearly half a million engine failures, 100,000 busted air conditioning units and a 20% increase in faults with convertible roofs – and now the BBC has reported cars melting in the sunlight.
This bizarre story features a London skyscraper on Fenchurch Street – nicknamed the "Walkie Talkie" – reflecting so much light that parts of a nearby Jaguar actually melted.
Londoner Martin Lindsay parked his beloved Jaguar near the building last Thursday and, when he came back to his car two hours later, the wing mirror, panels and manufacturer badge had melted. It is thought that the unusual curved shape of the glass building sent a concentrated beam of light straight towards the luxury car, causing the disfigurement.
Building developers have apologized and paid for repairs. Mr Lindsay, understandably gutted, is allegedly not the only person who had a warped car to contend with thanks to the Walkie Talkie, a 37-story building actually named 20 Fenchurch. The City of London has apparently closed three nearby parking bays to avoid further car damage caused by light reflecting from the shiny building.
When driving long distances in warm weather, “we always recommend motorists check the condition of their tyres as well as oil, water and coolant levels before taking to the road,” advises RAC head of technical Phil Ryan. The part about not parking your car next to tall, curved reflective buildings appears to be missing.
Our summer driving guide features plenty of advice for car maintenance and driving in hot weather and on long journeys. And, if you have any problems with engines, air conditioning units or melting roofs, you can visit your local Arnold Clark Service Department for maintenance and repairs. You can now even book your car in for a service online.