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Essential Car Checks Before Long Journeys

Planning a long drive across the UK, whether for a family holiday, business trip, or weekend getaway, can be exciting. However, before setting off, it is crucial to make sure your vehicle is in safe and reliable condition. A few simple checks can help prevent breakdowns, save money, and ensure a stress-free journey.

Neglecting essential car maintenance before travelling long distances increases the risk of roadside problems and delays. To keep your trip smooth and safe, here is a complete guide to the most important car checks every driver in the UK should perform before starting a long journey.

Check Tyres for Pressure and Condition

Tyres are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, so their condition directly affects safety and performance. Before travelling, take time to inspect each tyre carefully.

Pressure:

Use a reliable pressure gauge to ensure your tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. You can find this information inside the driver’s door frame or in the vehicle handbook. Underinflated tyres increase fuel consumption and reduce grip, while overinflated tyres can lead to uneven wear and poor handling.

Tread Depth:

Legally in the UK, tyres must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. However, most experts recommend replacing tyres once the tread reaches 3mm for better wet-weather performance.

Condition:

Look for any cuts, cracks, bulges, or embedded objects such as nails or glass. If you notice any damage, have the tyre checked or replaced before you set off.

Check Engine Oil Level

Your engine oil keeps vital parts lubricated and prevents overheating. Driving with too little oil can cause serious damage and costly repairs.

To check your oil:

1. Park on level ground and turn off the engine.

2. Wait a few minutes to let the oil settle.

3. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and then check the oil level.

The oil should sit between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick. If it is low, top it up using the correct oil type for your vehicle. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the right specification.

Inspect Coolant and Other Fluid Levels

Long journeys put extra strain on your engine, making it essential to check your coolant level. This fluid prevents the engine from overheating and freezing in cold conditions.

Ensure the coolant is filled to the appropriate level when the engine is cold. If it appears low, top it up with a mixture of antifreeze and water. Check your manual to find the correct type and concentration.

In addition to coolant, check other fluids such as:

• Brake fluid: Crucial for safe braking performance.

• Power steering fluid: Ensures smooth and easy steering.

• Windscreen washer fluid: Helps maintain clear visibility in all weather conditions.

Keeping all fluids at proper levels ensures your car operates efficiently throughout your trip.

Test the Battery

A flat battery is one of the most common causes of roadside breakdowns in the UK. Batteries tend to fail more often in cold weather or when cars are not used frequently. Before a long journey, check the battery terminals for corrosion and make sure they are tightly connected.

If your car struggles to start or the lights dim when idling, it could be a sign of a weak battery. If the battery is more than three years old, consider having it tested by a garage. Many service centres and recovery providers offer free battery checks.

Check Lights and Indicators

Good visibility is vital for safety, especially when driving at night or in poor weather. Walk around your car and test all exterior lights, including:

• Headlights (both dipped and full beam)

• Brake lights

• Indicators

• Fog lights

• Reverse lights

• Number plate lights

Replace any faulty bulbs immediately. Carrying spare bulbs is also recommended when travelling long distances, particularly through rural areas where garages may be limited.

Inspect Brakes

Your brakes are one of the most important safety features of your car. Listen for any unusual noises such as grinding or squealing when braking, as these may indicate worn pads or discs.

If your brake pedal feels soft or you notice vibrations when stopping, have your brakes inspected by a qualified mechanic. Never ignore brake issues before a long trip. Reliable braking performance can make a life-saving difference on motorways or steep roads.

Check Windscreen and Wipers

A clear windscreen is essential for good visibility. Examine your windscreen for cracks or chips. Small chips can quickly grow into larger cracks when exposed to temperature changes or vibration, so it is best to have them repaired early.

Next, test your wipers. If they leave streaks, make squeaking sounds, or do not clear water effectively, replace the blades. Also, refill the washer fluid reservoir and consider adding a screenwash that removes insects and dirt effectively.

Ensure You Have Enough Fuel

Running out of fuel is an easily preventable cause of breakdowns. Always start your journey with a full tank, especially if you will be travelling through remote areas or during nighttime when fuel stations may be closed.

If you drive a diesel car, check that you have enough AdBlue if your vehicle uses it. Running out of AdBlue can cause the engine to go into limp mode or fail to start.

Check the Air Conditioning and Heating System

Comfort is important during long journeys, particularly when travelling with passengers. Test your air conditioning and heating to make sure they work properly. A functioning system not only keeps you comfortable but also helps clear condensation from the windscreen in cold or wet conditions.

Pack an Emergency Kit

Even with all precautions, unexpected issues can still happen. Having an emergency kit in your car can make a big difference in case of a breakdown or delay.

Recommended items include:

• First aid kit

• Torch with spare batteries

• Warning triangle

• Reflective jacket

• Jump leads

• Spare tyre or puncture repair kit

• Basic toolkit

• Bottled water and snacks

• Mobile phone charger

These items provide peace of mind and ensure you are prepared for unexpected situations.

Plan Your Route and Rest Stops

Modern sat-nav systems and mobile apps make route planning easier than ever, but it is still wise to review your journey before you start. Check for planned roadworks, closures, or heavy traffic areas.

Plan rest stops every two hours to stretch your legs, eat, and stay alert. Fatigue is a major cause of accidents on long journeys, so regular breaks are essential for safe driving.

Review Your Insurance and Breakdown Cover

Before setting off, make sure your car insurance and breakdown cover are up to date. Knowing that you have support if something goes wrong offers valuable peace of mind.

If you do not have a breakdown policy, consider joining a local service in your area. For example, drivers in Wolverhampton and the West Midlands often rely on companies such as Autosquad Midlands for quick and affordable recovery support.

Having proper cover ensures you will not be left stranded if your car experiences problems far from home.

Final Walk-Around Check

Just before you leave, take one final walk around your car. Make sure all doors and the boot close properly, mirrors are clean and correctly adjusted, and there are no warning lights on the dashboard.

This last-minute check only takes a minute or two but helps catch anything you may have missed earlier.

Conclusion

Long journeys across the UK can be enjoyable and memorable when your vehicle is properly prepared. Taking time to complete essential car checks before setting off helps ensure your safety, reduces the risk of breakdowns, and keeps your trip running smoothly.

By inspecting tyres, fluids, brakes, lights, and the battery, and by packing an emergency kit, you can travel with confidence knowing that your car is ready for the road ahead.

Whether you are heading to the coast, the countryside, or a city across the UK, these simple checks will help you reach your destination safely and without unnecessary stress. A little preparation goes a long way toward a safe and comfortable journey for you and your passengers.