Getting your car ready for a road trip
A road trip is one of the best ways to enjoy driving properly. No rushing, no timetables, just you, the car and the road ahead. But before you set off with a full tank and a playlist ready to go, it’s worth spending a little time making sure your car is up to the journey. A few simple checks and a bit of planning can make the difference between a great trip and one spent on the hard shoulder.
First things first, start with the tyres. They’re easy to forget about, but they’re doing a lot of hard work, especially on longer drives. Check the tyre pressures when the tyres are cold and make sure they’re set to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Incorrect pressures can affect handling, fuel economy and tyre wear. While you’re there, have a quick look at the tread depth and sidewalls. Any cracks, bulges or uneven wear are a sign that something isn’t quite right. And yes, it’s worth checking the spare too – there’s nothing worse than finding out it’s flat when you actually need it.
Next, pop the bonnet and check your fluids. Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid and windscreen washer fluid should all be at the correct levels. Long journeys can put extra strain on the engine, so fresh oil and enough coolant are particularly important. It’s also a good opportunity to look for any obvious leaks or loose pipes. If something doesn’t look right, getting it sorted before you leave is always the better option.
If your car is due a service soon, it’s a smart move to get it done before heading off. A routine service gives a mechanic the chance to check key components like the brakes, battery, belts and hoses. Batteries are a common cause of breakdowns, especially when they’re older or have struggled through winter, so it’s worth paying attention to how yours is performing. Fixing small issues at home is far less stressful than dealing with them miles away from anywhere familiar. And for extra peace of mind, why not take out a Breakdown Cover policy. You can opt for a single-trip policy to cover you simply for this adventure, or an annual one for future ones too!
Brakes and lights are also well worth a quick check. Listen out for squeaks or grinding when braking and pay attention to how the car feels when slowing down. Make sure all your lights are working properly, including indicators, brake lights and headlights. Good visibility is essential, particularly if you’ll be driving at night or in poor weather, and working lights help you stay predictable to other road users.
A bit of journey planning goes a long way too. Even if you enjoy the freedom of an unplanned drive, it helps to have a rough route in mind when it comes to a road trip. Think about fuel stops, rest breaks and how far you realistically want to drive in one go. Make sure your sat nav or phone maps are up to date, and it’s never a bad idea to keep a paper map in the car as a backup.
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One final bit of advice; put together a simple emergency kit. A warning triangle, torch, jumper cables, tyre inflator and a basic first aid kit don’t take up much space but can be incredibly useful. Add some water, snacks, a phone charger and an extra layer, and you’re well prepared for unexpected delays. With the checks done and a plan in place, you can relax and enjoy the drive, which is what a good road trip is all about.
