01/10/2026
π¨ HEADING AWAY FOR THE LONG WEEKEND? DON'T FORGET TO CHECK! π¨
Before you pack the boot, load up the family, and hit the highway π£οΈ, take 10 minutes to run through your ultimate pre-travel vehicle inspection
π οΈ. Making sure you check these crucial areas now will save you a massive headache on the road later! ππ
Make sure you check these 8 essential spots before you turn the key:
β’ π Tyres & Pressure: Check your tyre pressures when they are cool, look closely for side-wall bulges or cracks, and ensure your tread depth is well above the legal limit. π Don't forget to drop into the boot and check the spare tyre too! π
β’ π Brake Responsiveness: Pay attention to how the pedal feels under your foot. π£ Listen out for any warning squeaks, high-pitched squeals, or grinding noises πΆ that mean your pads need a look before a long drive.
β’ π’οΈ Under-Bonnet Fluids: Pop the bonnet ποΈ and manually check your engine oil dipstick, engine coolant reservoir, brake fluid reservoir, and power steering fluid. π§
β’ π§οΈ Wipers & Washers: Test your front and rear wiper blades for splits or fraying rubber. π§Ό Top up your windscreen washer fluid bottle with a quality cleaner so you can wipe away bugs and highway grime easily. π¦
β’ π‘ All Exterior Lights: Turn on your car and double-check your headlights, high beams, indicators, hazard lights, reverse lights, and registration plate lights. π‘ Having a mate stand behind the car makes this a 30-second job! π₯
β’ π Battery Health: Look under the bonnet for any white or blue powdery corrosion building up around the battery terminals. π§ͺ Ensure the brackets are tight and the car is starting instantly without struggling. β‘
β’ π‘οΈ Dashboard Warnings: Turn your ignition key to 'ON' and look at the dash. ποΈ If any check engine, oil pressure, or cooling system warning lights stay illuminated, get it scanned before you depart! β οΈ
β’ π§° Boot Emergency Gear: Rummage through the lower boot section to confirm your vehicle's mechanical jack, wheel brace, and locking wheel nut key are exactly where they should be. π§ Consider packing a high-vis vest and a torch just in case! π¦
It takes less than 10 minutes to tick these off your list but guarantees peace of mind for the whole drive. β±οΈ
Travel safe this long weekend, take plenty of rest breaks β, and enjoy the holiday road trip! ππ΄