An increase in the number of fires in moving vehicles is reported every summer, with experts sounding the alarm. While no injuries or fatalities have been reported so far, vehicle fires—especially when they occur while the vehicle is in motion—pose extremely serious risks to both passengers and other road users.

Speaking to AlphaNews.Live, mechanical and automotive engineer Charalambos Kapetanios stated that having vehicles inspected during the summer is of critical importance, while emphasizing, however, that consumers should only seek out professionals.

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The inspection should cover:

• the engine compartment, for any oil or coolant leaks;
• the various hoses in the engine compartment.
• the wiring in the engine compartment.
• the fuel system.

According to Mr. Kapetanos, in recent years, there has been a trend of rodents finding “shelter” in the engine compartment and damaging the car’s wiring, resulting in various malfunctions.

However, as he explained, most fires in moving vehicles are triggered by extremely high temperatures.

“When we go to a mechanic and they don’t pay much attention to the fuel lines—something we’ve seen happen — various cracks form in the hoses, leading to fuel leakage into the engine compartment. Due to the high temperatures both in the environment and in the engine compartment, even higher temperatures can develop, leading to ignition.”

When asked what signs should alert drivers to seek help from a specialist, Charalambos Kapetanios points to the engine temperature gauge, the indicators on the vehicle’s dashboard, and the smell.

“When there’s a fuel or oil leak in the engine compartment, you’ll definitely notice a different smell coming from the vehicle.”

As for the recommended frequency of inspections, despite the fact that the manufacturer recommends an inspection once a year, Mr. Kapetanios recommends two inspections per year, especially for older vehicles.

_{*Photo source: AP.}