New Tyres Quick: 6 checks for your car this Summer

So its that time of year again! Holiday season, and with the huge recession many of us are choosing to stay in the UK and driving to our holiday destination.

Before the long drive, going on holiday you should definitely do some simple checks for your car this Summer.

This will help hugely reduce the chance of a breakdown, also piece of mind to know your not only safe but legal.

The best thing to do is have your car serviced before hand and any little jobs doing at your local garage it will save you holiday time and spending money.

There is nothing worse whilst on holiday than trying to find a reputable garage that you can take your car to, and then being without your car while you are wanting to take in the local sites.

If you are going to do the checks yourself, here are 6 checks for your car this Summer.

First of course is Tyres:-

Check your tyre pressures (not forgetting the spare tyre) are at the correct setting, not forgetting the extra load you will be carrying or, possibly towing.

Refer to you owners manual for the correct settings.

Remember to do this when the tyres are cold, not after distance of more than 5 miles.

This helps you ensure better grip, less tyre wear and will be more fuel efficient.

Check all your tyres for any cuts or damage to the sidewalls.

If you have locking wheel nuts fitted to your vehicle do ensure the key removal kit is in safely in the car just in case.

Your Levels:-

Oil: Check the level using the dipstick and top up if needed, carry a litre of spare oil if you can for top-ups. If the car is due an oil change it’s worth getting it done before you go away.

The engine will run more efficiently and reduces the risk of you damaging the engine.

Water: Check the coolant level and top if it is needed,

but do this only when the engine is cold.

Power steering:- make sure that the fluid is filled up to the correct level. Top up if needed using hydraulic fluid you may need to refer to your car handbook.

Windscreen:-

Wiper blades and screen wash, always start your journey with a nice clean windscreen, also check for any chips or cracks and get them repaired or replaced asap.

Check your wipers are in good condition and make sure they are clean. If they are worn or dirty they will smear your windscreen instead of clearing it.

Ensure you top up your screen washer bottle, with screen wash not just water, as baked on bugs are hard to clear, and ensure the jets are working correctly and hitting the screen evenly.

Lights:-

Check all your lights are working and clean, Side lights front and back, dip beam, main beam, indicators front and back, brake, reverse not forgetting hazards and fog lights. Carry spare bulbs with you, in the glove box or side pocket, some where that you can get to the easily enough with your car fully loaded with your luggage.

Roof racks and bike carriers:-

Roof racks are a smart way of taking your belongings out of the car, giving your passengers more space and reducing the risk of your belongings being thrown around inside the car especially if you need to make an emergency stop. Ensure they are securely and correctly fitted.

Fuel:-

This sounds obvious but Ensure that you have enough fuel at all times. Running out of fuel is the most common reasons for the breakdown services being called out. Also it is bad for your engine and very embarrassing, do not wait until the next services.

Now that you have done the 6 checks for your car this Summer there maybe extra items you may need if travelling abroad.

If your lucky enough to be driving abroad there are a few different rules, most European countries insist you carry spare bulbs, a warning triangle and a high visibility jacket. Others require you to carry a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher.

Documents to take when driving abroad