Whether you’re planning a trip to Cornwall, a weekend in the New Forest or a European road trip, the last thing you want is for your holiday to begin on the hard shoulder.
Many summer breakdowns are caused by simple maintenance issues that could have been spotted in just a few minutes with a summer car check. Taking the time to check your vehicle before setting off can improve safety, increase reliability and help avoid expensive repairs while you’re away.
At Segensworth Automobiles, we recommend a summer car check before any long journey.
1. Check Your Tyres
Your tyres are the only part of your vehicle that touches the road, making them one of the most important safety components.
Before travelling, inspect each tyre for:
- Correct tyre pressure
- Adequate tread depth (the legal minimum is 1.6mm, although replacing tyres before they reach this limit is recommended)
- Uneven wear
- Cracks, cuts or bulges
Don’t forget to check your spare wheel if your vehicle has one.
2. Check Engine Oil
Your engine relies on clean oil for lubrication and cooling. Driving long distances with low or dirty oil can increase engine wear and, in severe cases, lead to engine failure.
Check the oil level using the dipstick while the engine is cool and parked on level ground. If it’s below the recommended level, top it up with the correct grade of oil specified by your manufacturer.
3. Inspect Coolant Levels
Summer traffic, motorway driving and high temperatures place extra demands on your cooling system.
Low coolant levels can cause your engine to overheat, potentially leading to costly damage.
Check the coolant reservoir and ensure the level sits between the minimum and maximum markings. Never remove the radiator cap while the engine is hot.
4. Top Up Windscreen Washer Fluid
A dirty windscreen can seriously reduce visibility, especially during long motorway journeys where insects, dust and road grime quickly build up.
Fill your washer bottle with a quality screen wash rather than plain water, as it helps remove stubborn dirt more effectively.
5. Test All Your Lights
Before leaving, ask someone to help check:
- Headlights
- Brake lights
- Indicators
- Reverse lights
- Number plate lights
- Fog lights
Working lights improve your visibility and help other road users see your intentions.
6. Make Sure Your Air Conditioning Is Working
Few things make a summer journey more uncomfortable than air conditioning that blows warm air.
A properly functioning air conditioning system keeps you comfortable, helps prevent driver fatigue and also demists your windows more effectively when needed.
If your air conditioning isn’t cooling as it should, it may simply require a re gas, although refrigerant can only escape if there’s a leak somewhere within the system. If the system loses its cooling performance shortly after a re gas, it’s important to have it professionally inspected and repaired.
7. Check Your Battery
Many people associate battery failures with winter, but hot weather can also shorten battery life.
If your battery is several years old or your vehicle has been slow to start recently, it’s worth having it tested before travelling.
8. Inspect Your Brakes
Listen for unusual noises and pay attention to any vibration or pulling when braking.
If your brakes don’t feel quite right, don’t ignore the warning signs. Having them inspected before your journey is far safer than discovering a problem hundreds of miles from home.
9. Pack an Emergency Kit
Even well maintained vehicles can experience unexpected problems.
We recommend carrying:
- Drinking water
- A phone charger
- Warning triangle (where appropriate)
- High visibility vest
- Torch
- First aid kit
- Jump leads
- Breakdown provider details
These items can make an unexpected delay far more manageable.
Book a Summer Car Check
If you’re planning a long journey and want complete peace of mind, our experienced technicians can carry out a comprehensive inspection before you travel.
We’ll check the key safety and maintenance items, identify any potential issues and make sure your vehicle is ready for the miles ahead.
Whether you need a quick inspection, an interim service or a full service before your holiday, we’re here to help.
Visit Segensworth Automobiles
Based in Segensworth, we proudly support drivers across Fareham, Whiteley, Locks Heath, Gosport and the surrounding areas with reliable servicing, MOTs and vehicle repairs.
If you’re heading away this summer, book your vehicle in before you go and enjoy your journey with confidence.
Contact Segensworth Automobiles today on 01489 662 000 or book your appointment online.
