Summer has arrived meaning many of us have planned our summer getaway. It’s important to also make car maintenance part of your summer road trip preparation. Below we have created a checklist to ensure your car is ready for your summer road trip.
Plan Your Breaks
Planning your stops ahead of time can be a life saver, it not only ensures the driver is rested and fit to drive, but you can also plan these stops around scenic places to stretch your legs along the way.
Pack the Paper Work
Making sure you have all the correct paperwork is a necessity. These include driving licence, car insurance details and the number for breakdown services.
Car Maintenance
The above doesn’t matter if your vehicle is not fit for the road. It is essential to make sure your vehicle is roadworthy. These simple checks you can do yourself could be the difference between getting to your destination as planned or sitting by the roadside waiting for recovery.
Tyres – Check the pressure, the tread and the spare.
Lights – Ensure they are all working (headlights, indicators and taillights) and replace any bulbs if needed.
Oil Level – Oil is vital in keeping your car engine running smoothly. Without oil you could end up stranded while causing costly damage to your vehicle.
Windows and washers – It is essential to keep your screen wash reservoir topped up. Driving with a dirty or smeared windscreen can be dangerous.
Coolant – Coolant keeps your engine healthy by regulating the temperature of the cooling system. This makes it essential for avoiding breakdowns on a hot day.
Air Con – Testing your air con before any long trip is a good idea, not having functional air con can make a long journey unpleasant.
Other Essentials
Other things to pack in your vehicle ahead of the road trip that will make it more enjoyable and essentials to have in your vehicle in case of a breakdown:
Warning triangle
Snacks and water
Passenger entertainment
Blankets or extra warm clothing
First aid Kit
Reflective jacket
Torch
Loose Change
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Hopefully this guide has helped you prepare and plan ahead for your summer road trip. Having a basic maintenance routine will lessen your chance of any major issues whilst you are away.