Planning ahead for a long trip

To help reduce the chance of breakdown make sure your car is in good condition.

Before you pack your luggage and family into the car, check your oil, brake, transmission and radiator fluid levels. Your car instruction manual is a useful source of information so make sure you take it with you.

How to check your engine oil

With the car on a level surface remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, put it back and pull it out again. The oil level will show on the dipstick.

For an accurate oil reading, always check the oil when the engine is cold. If you are due for an oil change, do it before you leave to avoid engine trouble on the road. Oil changes are usually done when your car goes in for a service.

How to check your transmission fluid

The transmission fluid keeps your transmission running smoothly. To get an accurate reading, drive your car a short distance to warm it up. Find a flat spot to park your car and leave the gears in neutral or park.

Look in your car manual for instructions on how to check the transmission fluid. If your car has a dipstick then it is just like checking your oil. Top up if needed.

If you are towing a caravan, trailer or boat, check your transmission levels regularly as the added weight puts extra pressure on your transmission.

Top up your engine coolant

Always ensure you have enough anti-freeze and water in your engine. Follow the instructions on the bottle to make sure you put the right amount and concentration of coolant in your car. If you are not sure which brand to use, check with your garage or dealer.

Check your tyre pressure

The correct tyre pressure for your car should be in your owner's manual. Under or over inflated tyres can cause blowouts.

You must have at least 1.6mm of tread on each tyre. Replace any tyres with cuts, tears, bulges or lumps.

Illegal tyres

Illegal Tyres have severe penalties with a maximum fine of £2500 and up to 3 penalty points for each illegal tyre on you car.

How do you know an illegal tyre from a legal one?

Have a look at our guide to illegal tyres.

  • Mixed tyres: You cannot have mix cross ply tyres with radial tyres anywhere on your car. You have to have one or the other.
  • Cuts in excess of 10% or 25mm across the width of your tyre are illegal
  • Exposure of cord or ploy on your tyre is illegal
  • Bulges, tears and lumps are illegal.
  • The minimum legal tread depth for a car weighing up to 3,500 kgs and/or can seat 8 people including the driver is 1.6mm.

You can inspect your tyres regularly yourself or take your car to a qualified technician.

Be prepared

Preparation can be the difference between a gruelling trip and a great trip.

Here are a few useful tips for a hassle free journey.

  • Car Care: check your oil, water, brake and radiator fluid levels, tyre pressure (including the spare), and that your lights are working properly
  • Take spare water, engine oil, a first aid kit, torch and spare torch batteries with you. Make sure you have all the tools you need to change a tyre.
  • Plan your route: if you don't have a GPS unit, make sure you have a recent map and plot your route before you leave home
  • Keep the kids busy: take games, books, toys, drinks and snacks to beat the boredom.