Essential Car Checks Before a Long Trip
Travelling long distances in the car requires much effort to get everything ready. Ensuring that it is safe, comfortable,
Travelling long distances in the car requires much effort to get everything ready. Ensuring that it is safe, comfortable, and reliable during the trip is very crucial. Here’s an easy guide to ensure that your vehicle is ready for that road trip.
1. Check the Exterior
Start with a visual check of your car’s exterior:
Glass and Mirrors: Windshield and side windows: look for cracks or chips. A small chip may grow, so repair it promptly.
Fuel Cap: it should be tightly closed.
Tyres: Obvious damage is usually obvious- look for cracks or bulges. For the tread depth, put a 20p coin in the groove of the tyre: if the outer band is hidden then the tread is legal (over 1.6mm). Check the pressure of the tyres using a pressure gauge. Don’t forget to check the spare tyre, if fitted.
2. Check MOT and Road Tax
Before taking off for a trip, you need to ensure that the vehicle has a valid MOT and Road Tax. This is essential; otherwise, the police can seize the vehicle and issue you a fine. To find out if your car has valid MOT and tax, you can run a car check for free. The details will be instantly available to view.
3. Clean and Check Windscreens
Clear vision is vital:
Clean front and rear windscreens thoroughly.
Screen wash levels filled, wiper blades are serviceable.
The bonnet can be lifted to a well-lit flat location, ideally after the vehicle has been parked when cold to make checks of fluids levels.
4. Check Oil Level
Maintaining adequate levels of oil avoids the potential for the damage caused to an engine
Dipstick locating; wiping; reading levels, checking within marks min and max.
Fill up with manufacturer-recommended oil if required.
5. Check Engine Coolant
Coolant controls the engine temperature and ensures it does not overheat:
Ensure levels are between the minimum and maximum marks.
Only check and top up coolant when the engine is cold to avoid injury.
6. Check Lights
Ensure all lights work to maintain brightness and safety:
Headlights, indicators, brake lights, reversing lights, fog lights, and high beams
Ask someone to help or use reflective surfaces to verify functionality.
7. Check the Brakes
Test your brakes to ensure they’re responsive:
Press the pedal before starting the engine; it should feel firm.
Perform a controlled stop in a safe space to ensure the brakes grab without pulling to one side.
8. Check Electricals
Test that electrical systems are working:
Test windows, heating, air conditioning, and power steering.
Set child locks if driving with young children onboard.
9. Fill Up
Avoid unnecessary stoppages by refuelling the vehicle before departing. Fuel pumps at motorway services are pricey so it pays to fill up in the village or town instead.
10. Clean the Cabin
Clear clutter for a more comfortable and less stressful journey
11. Prepare for Breakdowns
Gather emergency equipment:
- First aid kit
- Triangle and high-visibility jacket
- Spare tire or inflation kit
- Bottled water, snacks, and a charger for your phone
After the Trip
Check your car upon arrival:
- Look for any visible damage.
- Remove rubbish to clean the car.
- Let the tyres cool off before measuring their pressure accurately.
- Check the fluid levels once the car has been parked for a few hours.
Regular Servicing
For frequent drivers, conduct these checks monthly or even fortnightly if covering high mileage.
Safe travels! By following these steps, you’ll ensure a smoother and stress-free trip.
