UPDATE | Preparing your car for a long drive [checklist]

Planning a long distance trip? Our helpful checklist has got you covered to make sure your car is 100% ready so you can just throw in the snacks and get going.

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes, 54 seconds.

Doing some pre-emptive checks on your car is especially important when it has been standing for long periods of time. The last thing you want on your road trip is to get stuck next to the road or find your paperwork is out of date.

Though you can’t control the other drivers on the road, you can make sure your car is in good shape and can handle any potential incidents.

PRINT THIS CHECKLIST TO HELP ENSURE YOUR CAR IS SAFE AND READY FOR YOUR FAMILY'S ROAD TRIP.

1. Checks you can do at home

All vehicles and owners are different. The below list is a handy guideline of checks you can do at home, but if you are unsure how to check some of these just contact your dealership and they’ll be happy to help.

• Make sure your tyres, as well as your spare tyre, are in good condition and filled to the correct pressure. Check that you have enough tread and that there are no deep nicks or gashes on any of your tyres.
  
  Pro tip: tyres can expire! How old is your spare tyre? Check the manufacturer website or speak to a tyre expert to make sure yours isn’t an accident waiting to happen.
  
  
• Do you have a First Aid kit? Most manufacturers sell these as accessories, but you can get comprehensive kits at most pharmacies. In addition to the basics such as antiseptic and plasters, make sure your kit is suited for your needs: antihistamine for those prone to allergies or anti-nausea medication for those who may get car sick.
  
  
• Do you have a jack and are you sure you know how it works? It’s worth making sure you know how to operate and place it before setting off because you don’t want to try and figure it out in the dark with children in the car.
  
  
• Do you have a hazard triangle? If you do need to stop next to the road in an emergency, you want to make sure you’re as visible as possible. Many people include a reflective vest for extra safety.
  
  
• If you have a roadside assistance plan, make sure all details are up to date.
  
  
• Make sure you have a charged flashlight in the car.
  
  
• Are your jumper cables still in working condition and easy to reach?
  
  
• Check underneath your vehicle for any leaks. Nothing should be leaking excessively, so if you notice regular fluid patches contact your dealer to find out if you should have it checked.
  
  
• Check all fluid levels: vehicle oil and water,  washer fluid and coolant. If you don’t know how your nearest garage should be able to help.
  
  
• Are your wipers in good condition (not cracked or crumbling) and working correctly?
  
  
• Are there any chips or cracks on your windscreen?
  
  
• Is your license disc valid and visible?
  
  
• Do you have a spare key in case of an emergency?
  
  
• Are all your lights working?
  
  
• Is your insurance up to date and are all possible drivers listed?
  
  
• Is your radio sound system set the way you like it? Does everyone have their road trip playlists loaded?

2. Checks to be done at the dealership

Most dealerships offer pre-holiday checks or 101-point vehicle checks. Many of the items checked at the dealership either can’t or shouldn’t be checked at home. So take the bit of extra time to give your vehicle a proper check to avoid any nasty surprises that could end up ruining your holiday. Dealership checks are comprehensive and below is a list with some of the more crucial points they’ll be checking on your vehicle.

• Engine filters
  
  
• Drive belt, cooling fans, fuel cap.
  
  
• Electronic keys, remotes, and vehicle alarm systems.
  
  
• Check that all dashboard bulbs and driver information systems are functioning correctly.
  
  
• Check for water damage or mildew and that all rubber seals (doors, boot etc) are in good condition.
  
  
• Noise check - they will pick up any concerning rattles or engine noises.
  
  
• Full brake system check.
  
  
• Seat check: that all adjustment functions work and that headrests are secure.
  
  
• Check that seat belts are in good working order.
  
  
• Full exhaust system check.
  
  
• Check for any rusted, loose, or missing parts.
  
  
• Engine start, stall, idle, and power checks.
  
  
• Full gearbox and clutch checks.
  
  
• Steering wheel and steering system checks.
  
  
• Wheel alignment.
  
  
• Vehicle electronics and wiring. 

Read up on how to service and maintain your car before you set off on your family road trip, and make sure your family has a safe and happy journey.