5 Car Maintenance Checks Before Taking A Summer Road Trip?

The sun is shining. Summer is here. Many of us are planning a quick road trip to the beach or a summer staycation (it’s the safe option given all the flight chaos, right?). But before you go anywhere… take a moment to carry out these 5 important car maintenance checks.

Let’s be honest, no one wants to break down in the scorching heat, on route to their destination. Waiting at the side of the road (especially if you’re journeying with kids) can prove the ultimate nightmare, ending all dreams of a relaxing break away from the daily grind.

If you’re hitting the road for a summer break, be sure to check your car to ensure everything’s in tip-top shape before you go. Below Auto Medics – car body shop High Wycombe – has provided a 5-point car maintenance checklist, be sure to tick off each task:

1. Check Your Fluids

• Engine oil – check the owner’s manual for your car to see how frequently you should change your engine oil. If your vehicle needs an oil change, book it in before heading off on your travels.

• Coolant – keeping your coolant topped up is essential as cars produce heat. If fluid levels are depleted your car could overheat while you’re off on your road.

• Brake fluid – low brake fluid causes air to fill the gaps in your brake line. This causes your brakes to feel spongy when you put your foot down on the pedal. This can be a scary and dangerous experience, so always be sure to get your brakes serviced at the first sign of any issues.

2. Check Your Tyres

Your tyres should be in perfect condition before you begin your adventure. Ensure they have adequate tread for the journey ahead and that they are inflated correctly. Tyres pressures that are too low can result in your car using more fuel than necessary (and at current prices, no one needs that right now). If your tyre pressures are too high this can cause blowouts. Too low or too high, incorrectly inflated tyres can prove dangerous, making it more difficult to control your car.

Don’t forget to check your tyre tread either. The legal limit is 1.6mm, if the tread is approaching this before you set off, it might be an idea to replace your tyres before you go.

3. Check Your Brakes Work

Your brakes must be in good working order before heading out anywhere! Make sure your brake pads are in good condition, over time these wear away so check they are not too worn before you go.

4. Check Your Air Filter & Air Conditioning

If your air filter becomes clogged with dust and dirt it can stop working effectively. This can affect the way the engine works and how much fuel your car uses, so it would be an idea to get this changed before a long journey.

As we enter another heat wave, it would also be an idea to ensure your air-con is working properly. No one wants to get stuck in traffic in this heat without the cooling effects air-con offers.

5. Check Your Lights

Check all lights are working and have spare bulbs in the car in case a bulb blows while you’re en route to your destination. Be sure to check your headlights, indicator lights and brake lights before you set off.

These simple maintenance checks can ensure vital elements of your motor are in perfect working order before you go. What’s more, you could save yourself expensive repair costs when you’re supposed to be enjoying time away.

Car Maintenance High Wycombe at Auto Medics Car Body Shop

If your motor is in need of a little fine-tuning before you hit the road this summer, pop down to Auto Medics for your car maintenance needs High Wycombe. You’ll find us good for tyre changes, bulbs, wiper blades and so much more.

Get in touch with us on 01494 533 534 or drop in and a member of our friendly team will be happy to help.

We Are Moving!

Don’t Forget: Auto Medics is moving to new premises sometime in July. You’ll soon find us based at:

4 Premacto works, Queensmead Rd, Loudwater, High Wycombe HP10 9XA

Until next time, enjoy the sunshine! ☀️