Before setting off on a long drive, especially when setting off on holiday it is worth carrying out some simple checks and tasks to avoid the risk of breakdown or finding yourself on the wrong side of the law

Tyres
Ensure your tyres are at the correct tyre pressure taking into account the load for your journey. This ensures better grip, less tyre wear and will use less fuel
Inspect for cuts or damage to the sidewalls. Don't forget to check the spare as well.
If locking wheel nuts are fitted to your wheels make sure you’ve packed the key removal kit just in case

Engine oil
Check the dipstick and top up if required If the car is due an oil change it’s worth getting it done before you go away. This will ensure the engine runs efficiently and removes the risk of engine wear/damage.

Coolant
Check the coolant level and top up as necessary – but only when the engine is cold.

Wipers
Wiper blades smear the windscreen if they become worn or dirty. Check for wear and make sure they are clean.

Screenwash
Make sure the reservoir is full. It's also a legal requirement that the system works. Use a good screenwash additive through summer as water alone won't clear oily road grime. There are a number of cleaning products available that help remove squashed bugs off your screen too

Windscreen
Inspect the screen for stone damage and always replace a cracked or chipped screen as soon as possible. This is often free if you have fully comprehensive insurance cover. Any damage may impair vision or distract attention and minor chips can quickly grow into major cracks. Again make sure the screen is clean

Lights
Check all lights. Don't forget indicators, brake and fog lights. If travelling abroad many countries insist you carry a spare bulb kit. Also you will need to put converters on the lights to stop you dazzling your fellow foreign motorists. Once again make sure they are clean

Power steering
Ensure that the fluid reservoir is at the correct level. Top up only using the correct hydraulic fluid as advised in your car handbook.

Roof and Bike Racks

These are a great way of taking luggage out of the car freeing up room and reducing the risk of cases and bags being hurled around inside the car especially if you need to make an emergency stop. Before setting off make sure they are securely fitted and once home remove to reduce weight and save fuel

Fuel
Make sure that you have sufficient fuel at all times. Running out of fuel is one of the biggest reasons for the breakdown services being called out. It is bad for your engine and hugely embarrassing

Driving abroad
Most European countries insist on you carrying spare bulbs, warning triangle and high visibility jacket. Many require you to carry a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher. You must ensure you have sufficient insurance cover and if you are in a leased or rented car you will need a VE103 form from the registered keeper. For more info and specific country advice click here