As the saying goes, failing to prepare is preparing to fail. This couldn’t be truer when it comes to planning a long road trip across the UK. The success and safety of your journey can largely depend on the condition of your car. This guide will provide practical advice on how to ensure your vehicle is in top shape before you hit the road.
Check Your Car’s Fluid Levels
The lifeblood of your car’s engines are its fluids. They keep your vehicle running smoothly and prevent damage to its components. Here, we’ll run through the essential fluids you should check and top up if necessary, in preparation for your long drive.
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Engine Oil
The engine oil is the lubricant that allows the internal parts of your engine to work together without overheating. To check the oil level, park your car on level ground and wait for the engine to cool down. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and then insert it back in. Pull it out again and see if the oil is between the minimum and maximum marks. If it’s too low, you need to add more.
Coolant
The coolant prevents your car’s engine from overheating. You can check the level of coolant in the translucent reservoir under your car’s hood. Again, you should do this when the engine is cool. If the liquid does not reach the "FULL" line, you should add a 50/50 mix of water and coolant.
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Brake Fluid
Another vital fluid to check is your brake fluid. The brake fluid reservoir is usually located on the driver’s side of your car. This fluid should be clear and reach the "FULL" line. If it’s murky or below the "FULL" line, you’ll need to top it off.
Examine Your Tires
Your car’s tires are essential for safe driving. They are, after all, the only part of your car that touches the road. Therefore, they should be in excellent condition before you embark on a long journey.
First, check the pressure in all your tires, including the spare. This should be done when the tires are cold — that is, when you haven’t driven your car for at least two hours. Make sure the pressure corresponds with the manufacturer’s recommendations, which you can usually find in your car’s manual or on a sticker on the driver’s door jamb.
Next, inspect the condition of your tires. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as bulges, cuts, or punctures. Also, make sure the tread depth is sufficient. In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tire.
Test Your Lights
All your car’s lights should be in working order to ensure you can see and be seen on the road. This includes your headlights, tail lights, brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights.
To check your lights, you’ll need the help of another person. Turn on each set of lights one by one, and ask your helper to confirm that they are working. If any lights are out, replace the bulbs before setting out on your trip.
Review Your Insurance and Breakdown Cover
When journeying across the UK, you want to be sure that your insurance cover will adequately protect you. Make sure to review your policy to understand what it covers and what exclusions apply.
Equally important is your breakdown cover. Long drives can be unpredictable, and you never know when you might encounter car trouble. Before your trip, make sure your policy is up to date and understand the benefits it offers, such as free towing, roadside assistance, and rental car coverage.
Pack an Emergency Kit
Despite your careful preparation, unexpected situations can still arise on the road. For this reason, it’s wise to pack an emergency kit in your car. This kit should include items such as a first aid kit, torch, blanket, high-visibility vest, warning triangle, and jump leads.
Also, don’t forget to pack some essential tools such as a spare tyre, jack, lug wrench, and tyre pressure gauge. These will come in handy if you need to change a flat tire on your journey. Other useful items include a fire extinguisher, multipurpose tool, spare fuses, and a car charger for your mobile phone.
By following this guide, you can confidently prepare your car for a long road trip across the UK. Enjoy the journey and drive safe!
Plan Your Route and Fuel Stops
An essential aspect of a long drive is knowing the route you’ll take. With the advent of GPS and mapping apps, it’s much easier to plan your journey. Make sure to familiarise yourself with the route, noting important turns and junctions. This will help you anticipate your next move, reducing the risk of sudden, late manoeuvres that could be dangerous.
Moreover, try to plan your stops. Frequent breaks can make your journey more enjoyable and less tiring. The UK Highway Code recommends taking a break of at least 15 minutes every two hours. Use your planned stops to stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and grab a bite to eat.
Fuel stops should also be planned. While the UK has plenty of petrol stations, some rural areas might not have many options. Look at your route and identify appropriate places to refuel. Remember, it’s better to refuel when your tank is about a quarter full rather than waiting until it’s nearly empty. This can help avoid the stress of potentially running out of fuel in an unfamiliar area.
Clean and Organise Your Car
Before hitting the road, take some time to clean and organise your car. A clean car can make your long journey more pleasant. Remove any rubbish, wipe down surfaces, and vacuum the floors and seats. If possible, consider getting your car professionally cleaned.
Organising your car is just as important. Ensure everything has a place and is easily accessible. For example, you could keep a bag for rubbish, a box for snacks, and a container for loose change for tolls. This can help maintain a sense of order during your trip, making it easier to find items when you need them.
In terms of safety, make sure your view out of all windows and mirrors is clear. This means not overloading your car or stacking items too high. Also, secure loose items to prevent them from moving around while you’re driving.
Conclusion: Ensuring a Successful Road Trip
Preparing your car for a lengthy journey can seem daunting, but by systematically checking all aspects of your vehicle, you can ensure it’s in the best condition for your trip. As you complete the necessary car maintenance tasks, remember to also plan your route and stops, review your car insurance and breakdown cover, and pack an emergency aid kit.
While this guide has provided detailed steps to prepare for a road trip across the UK, the principles can be applied to road trips in other countries too. The key is to take the time to prepare. The more thorough your preparation, the less likely you’ll encounter issues during your road trip, allowing you to enjoy the journey and the sights along the way.
Remember, the goal is not just to reach your destination, but also to make the journey there as safe and enjoyable as possible. With your car in top shape and all essentials on board, you will be ready for a memorable road trip! Safe travels!
