If you are setting off on a road trip this bank holiday weekend, you may want to carry out some pre-journey vehicle checks, experts have said. A quick inspection of your vehicle could potentially save you money, as well as helping you steer clear of any issues on the road.
Specialists at comparison website Carwow have offered some guidance for motorists to consider ahead of the busy period. Consumer writer Siobhan Doyle said one crucial thing to check is your tyres, particularly as the weather can be unpredictable at this time of year.
She said: "The weather in May can be unpredictable, with sunshine one moment and rain the next. So it's important to make sure your tyres are in good condition and keep you safe and stable on the road."
Key Measurement
The expert advised checking your tyre pressures, including your spare tyre if you have one. You should also inspect your tyres for any cuts, bulges or signs of wear. A vital check here is that your tread depth is legal – remember it needs to be 1.6mm. Your tread must be at least this deep across three quarters of the tyre continuously. You can check this by inserting a 20p coin into the main grooves of your tyre. If the outer band of the coin is not visible, the tread on your tyre is legally roadworthy.
Ms Doyle said it is likewise important to check your tyres are correctly inflated – as this could have financial implications. She said: "Even slightly under-inflated tyres can increase your fuel use and shorten driving range in electric cars, as well as affecting braking performance and grip. That's especially important during bank holiday traffic, where wet spring roads can quickly reduce control and safety."
Oils and Vital Fluids
Something to inspect beneath the bonnet is your vehicle's oil and vital fluids. Here are three items for you to tick off the list:
- Engine oil: Make sure it is at the right level for a smooth drive.
- Coolant: This is especially important as temperatures rise and engines work harder in traffic.
- Brake fluid: Check it is within the recommended level – these recommendations differ between make and model, and can be found in your owner's manual.
Battery Power
Your battery also deserves your attention to ensure it is functioning properly. The motoring expert said: "Although the weather this time of year is milder, batteries can still struggle after a stop-start winter of short journeys and intermittent use. With bank holiday travel often involving early starts or heavy traffic delays, any weakness can quickly show up. Key warning signs to watch out for are slow engine turnover, flickering dashboard lights and electrical glitches or lagging systems."
She said that a quick battery test, if it is more than a few years old, can spare you a great deal of trouble should your power suddenly fail in traffic.
Lights, Indicators, Visibility
You might be hoping for some pleasant weather this bank holiday weekend, but it is vital to be prepared for all conditions. Ms Doyle outlined what you need to check: "On busy roads this bank holiday, clear communication and visibility matter even more, so make sure you check your headlights – both full beam and dipped, your brake lights, indicators and hazards. And remember that spring pollen, dust, and road grime can also dull your car's headlight lenses, so a quick wipe can noticeably improve brightness and safety."
Windscreen, Wipers and Washer System
Given the unpredictable weather, it is essential that your wipers function efficiently and can clear your windscreen properly without smearing. The expert said: "Sudden showers followed by low sun glare can be a tricky combination – clean glass and effective wipers make a big difference."
A final piece of advice from Ms Doyle is to consider your departure time. She said: "May bank holiday traffic is among the busiest of the spring, with congestion often building from late morning as leisure trips and weekend getaways overlap. Setting off early or later in the evening can help you avoid the worst of the queues. Combine this with the five car checks above, and you will give yourself the best chance of a smooth, stress-free journey."
