10 Car Checks to Make Before a Long Journey
With the warmer months upon us, many of us will be getting
ready for trips to the seaside or visits to relatives. In the same way that you
need to pack a suitcase before a trip, there are certain things your car will
need, such as topped up oil and water, to ensure a stress-free drive.
The following checks will make sure your car is ready for a
long journey:
Tyres
Your tyres are responsible for carrying you to your
destination smoothly and safely. Are the tyres pumped up? Are they the correct
pressure? Are there any unusual lumps and bumps? No-one likes changing a wheel
on the side of the road, so checking tyres beforehand reduces the risk.
Oil
Your vehicle’s engine needs oil in order to run smoothly and
reduce friction, so before a long journey, you should check that there is
enough oil and that it is not contaminated. To check the oil level, remove the
dipstick and wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth. Put the stick back into the
pipe and then pull it out again – if the oil sits between the two notches at
the end of the stick, there is enough oil.
Water
While you are under the bonnet checking the oil, take a look
at the coolant reservoir to check that the water level is correct. If the water
is below the “min” marking, simply top up with water as needed.
Windscreen Wipers
If it starts to rain on our journey, it’s important that
your windscreen wipers are fully functional. Examine your wiper blades before
setting off – if they are worn out or squeaking constantly on the windscreen,
it’s time to replace them.
Mirrors
Are the mirrors set to your eye level? Check each mirror and
adjust them before setting off, rather than trying to fix them (dangerously)
while driving!
Lights
Not only is a missing headlight or brake light dangerous,
but it is also illegal. Check that all your lights are working and replace any
bulbs before setting off on your journey.
Basic toolkit
Unfortunately, you never know when you are going to break
down, even with the most detailed checks before your journey. This is why it’s
important to keep a
few tools in the boot in case you end up stranded on the side of the road. A
jack, a wrench, pliers, screwdrivers, cable ties, a bottle of water and a torch
are just a few things that might make life easier on the road.
Drinks and snacks
It’s important to stay hydrated on your journey. If you pack
your own drinks and snacks, not only will you save money at the service
station, but you will also be prepared in case of a breakdown.
The route
Double check your route, and if you have a sat nav, make
sure to set the destination before leaving.
Fuel stops
If it’s an especially long journey, the chances are you will
need to stop for fuel along the way. Be prepared for this by looking up petrol
stations on a map beforehand, so that you do not get caught out on the road.
If you make these 10 checks before your long journey, your
car will be more than ready for the trip! For more information or advice,
please get in touch
with the experts here at Express Service.
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Published: 26/04/2016
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