How To Prepare Your Car For a Long Trip

A long drive puts sustained load on your vehicle — hours at speed, heat, hills and sometimes rough roads. A little preparation a week before you leave prevents most roadside problems.

One week before

Give yourself time to fix anything you find. If a service is due soon, do it before the trip rather than after — see how often you should service your car.

Tyres

• Pressure — check when cold and set to the vehicle’s recommended pressure for a loaded car (usually on a label in the door frame or fuel flap)
• Tread and condition — look for cuts, bulges and uneven wear
• Spare wheel — check it’s inflated, and that the jack and wheel spanner are in the car

Brakes

Listen for squeals or grinding and notice any vibration or pulling. Loaded cars on long descents work their brakes hard. Read signs your brake pads need replacement.

Fluids

With the engine cold, check:

• Engine oil level
• Coolant level
• Brake fluid
• Washer fluid

Lights, wipers and battery

Test every light, including indicators and brake lights. Replace worn wiper blades. If the car has been slow to start, have the battery and charging system tested.

Suspension and steering

Knocks over bumps, pulling to one side or uneven tyre wear are worth checking before rough roads. See suspension & steering.

Pack the essentials

• Driving licence and vehicle documents
• Warning triangles and a reflective jacket
• Torch, phone charger and power bank
• Water and snacks
• Basic first-aid kit

On the road

Take regular breaks, keep an eye on the temperature gauge, and don’t ignore new warning lights. If the temperature rises, read why is my car overheating?.

Want a professional check before you go? Book a preventive maintenance inspection and tell us about your trip.