10 Essential vehicle checks before your bank holiday weekend

Planning a road trip this weekend, and haven't had time to bring your car in for a service. Here are ten things you can check yourself before you set off.

If you are planning a road trip this bank holiday weekend, we urge you to be extra vigilant and drive carefully.  Hopefully you have had the chance to get your vehicle inspected by an expert, if not here are 10 things you can check yourself before you set off.

  1. Check your car’s oil level - Not sure how? Simply locate oil tank and remove dipstick. Your dipstick will have a recommended guideline mark for the level of oil needed. Clean the dipstick and dip it back into the tank. When you remove the dipstick you will be able to see your current oil level.

 

  1. Check your engine coolant -  The tank should have a maximum and minimum point and your coolant level should be in-between the two. Some older cars are prone to overheating, so it is important to check your engine coolant levels before any long journey. Ensure to check your vehicles manual for guidelines. Most cars require different coolant ratios and mixtures etc.

 

  1. Windscreen washer & wipers - Make sure to top up before you leave. If you cannot get to a shop to purchase screen wash or de-icer, water can be just as effective. If your wiper blades are damaged they are very simple to change.

 

  1. Noises, leaks, rust etc. – Give the vehicle a quick scan and check the overall condition. If you hear any noises or notice anything strange under the bonnet, make sure to get it checked before you leave.

 

  1. Tyres - Check all tyres are in suitable condition and even the spare. Hopefully you won’t have a break-down but if you do, you want to make sure that you have an inflated spare available.

 

  1. Tyre Pressure - This is extremely important and takes a couple of minutes. If you are not sure on the correct pressure level, check the car manual.

 

  1. Tool Kit - Check to see that all necessary tools & equipment needed to change the tyre are located with the spare.

 

  1. First Aid Box - Ensure that the vehicles first aid box is in the car and most importantly, that it is not missing anything. If your car does not have a first aid box, make sure you pack some first aid essentials.

 

  1. Lights -  Check all lights are working. The easiest and quickest way to do this is to park up against a window to see the reflection and one by one test each light. Indicators, dip, full beam, brakes and even fog. Make sure to test all lights.

 

  1. Documents - Make sure your car is fully taxed, insured and has its NCT. If travelling abroad make sure to inform your insurer.

 

Finally take extra care. If you are travelling long distances, it is recommended that you should take at least a 15 minute break every two hours of travelling.With an increased number of drivers on the road there are more risks. Obey the speed limit, keep off your phone and drive safely.