Here at Car Magic we believe it is important for you to prepare yourselves for all eventualities when it come to your Vehicle.
It’s as important to ensure the upkeep of your vehicle is maintained as it is to feed yourself. Following a few simple guidelines is all it takes to minimize the risk of breakdowns and accidents.
The RAC recently released a study on roadside break down showing that up to 30% could have been avoided by owners if they had a better understanding of how their vehicles work.
Whilst we’re in the summer season and people are travelling the length and breadth of England and Europe, motorist should think about the condition and maintenance of their cars. Approximately two million UK tourists travel overseas although many fly a large number still pack up their vehicles in the hunt for a smashing driving holiday.
Making sure your vehicle is in best condition all year round is essential, but whilst most people care more for winter conditions and hazards it’s just as important in the summer as heat and sun take over and blind people of the dangers.
Our Five Top Tips For Summer Holiday Driving
- Check oil and coolant levels:
Low levels may cause overheating, excessive engine wear or in the worst-case engine seizure.
- Check the pressure of your tyres and examine them for and signs of wear or tear.
For example cuts, low treads and uneven wearing. Ensure they are inflated to the right pressures remembering that loading the car adds excess weight therefore requires more air. And always ensure they are legally compliant with the country that you are travelling to.
- Ensure your vehicle gets pre-holiday ‘Health Checks’ at one of the nationwide Code approved garages.
- Make sure your insurance policy covers you to travel abroad and remember to take all your insurance documents, driving licence and passport with you!
- Read up on the rules of whichever country you will travel through and ensure you have at least the minimum legal requirements for driving.
In many countries it is now a legal requirement to carry a reflective jacket.
In Germany it is illegal to run out of petrol on the motorway.
In Spain a spare headlight bulb is a must have.
And Remember if you’re driving anywhere in Europe you must display a GB sticker or a European registration plate.
If you remember these tips and ensure you do your research, there is no reason for your Vehicle to cause you any headaches or pains. It’s good practice to ensure your tyres and fluid levels are always kept up to the correct requirements not only for legal reasons but it’s far more economical and will protect your vehicle for a longer happier life.
