There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road. Whether you’re driving along the coast, heading into the mountains, or just exploring somewhere new, road trips have a way of making us feel free and alive. But before you load up your playlists and snacks, there’s one thing you absolutely need to take seriously—your car’s health.
Too often, road trips go from fun to frustrating because of car trouble that could have been avoided with a simple pre-trip check. So before you buckle up and roll out, here’s a practical list of car checks you should do to make sure your journey stays smooth and safe.
1. Check Your Tyres (All of Them, Including the Spare)
Let’s start from the ground up—your tyres. They’re the only part of your car touching the road, so you want them in top shape.
Check for:
- Tread depth – Worn-out tread means less grip, especially in wet conditions.
- Tyre pressure – Inflate to the recommended PSI (you’ll find it on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in the manual).
- Visible damage – Look for cracks, bulges, or nails. And don’t forget the spare! It’s useless if it’s flat or damaged when you need it most.
Real talk: We’ve had customers call our tow truck service stranded on the highway with not just one flat tyre—but a flat spare too. Avoid the double whammy!
2. Inspect the Brakes
You don’t want to find out your brakes are dodgy when you’re going downhill with a car full of luggage and passengers.
Listen for:
- Squealing or grinding noises.
- A soft or spongy brake pedal.
- Vibrations when braking.
If anything feels off, get your brakes looked at before the trip. A quick check now can prevent a roadside emergency later.
3. Check Oil and Fluid Levels
Oil is your engine’s lifeblood. Low or dirty oil can cause serious engine damage, especially on long drives.
Here’s what to check:
- Engine oil – Top up or change if needed.
- Coolant – Prevents overheating, especially important if you’re driving through hot regions.
- Brake fluid – Essential for your stopping power.
- Transmission fluid – Helps the gears shift smoothly.
- Windscreen washer fluid – Often overlooked, but you’ll need it when bugs and dust hit your screen.
It takes just a few minutes, and you don’t have to be a mechanic to do it.
4. Test the Battery
A dead battery is a surefire way to delay your road trip. If your battery is more than three years old or has been giving you trouble (slow starts, dimming lights), it’s time for a test.
You can:
- Take it to a local mechanic or auto store for a quick battery health check.
- Make sure the terminals are clean and corrosion-free.
And if you’re going somewhere remote, it doesn’t hurt to pack a set of jumper leads just in case.
5. Inspect the Lights and Wipers
You’ll need full visibility and visibility to others while driving—especially if you’re on the road at dawn, dusk, or through poor weather.
- Headlights, brake lights, reverse lights, indicators—make sure they all work.
- Wipers—if they leave streaks or make noise, they need replacing.
- Washer nozzles—make sure they spray properly.
It’s a small thing that makes a big difference in your safety.
6. Test the Air Conditioning and Heating
Depending on the season, a working A/C or heater is more than comfort—it’s a necessity. Make sure:
- The cabin cools or heats quickly.
- The fan works on all settings.
- The defogger clears your windscreen.
Long drives can get miserable fast if your climate control isn’t working properly.
7. Check Belts and Hoses
This one’s a bit under the hood, but if you’re comfortable:
- Look for cracks, frays, or leaks.
- Squeeze hoses—they should be firm, not squishy or brittle.
If you’re unsure, ask a mechanic to give them a once-over. A snapped belt can leave you stranded miles from the nearest service station.
8. Make Sure Your Toolkit and Emergency Gear Are Packed
You don’t need to be a pro mechanic, but having the basics can save your trip:
- Jack and wheel brace
- Torch with spare batteries
- First aid kit
- Jumper cables
- Reflective triangles or flares
- Phone charger or power bank
Even if you never use them, you’ll be glad you had them if you do.
Before You Hit the Road
Prepping your car might not be the most exciting part of planning a road trip, but it’s definitely one of the most important. A few simple checks now can prevent headaches later—and could even save you from a breakdown in the middle of nowhere. Plus, you’ll drive with more peace of mind knowing you’ve done your part to stay safe.
So give your car a little TLC before you set off. Then crank up your favourite tunes, buckle in, and enjoy the ride. Safe travels out there!
If you are in Clifton Hill, Victoria 3068, and looking for a nearby tow truck service, this is the best way to visit us.
Richmond Tow Trucks
123 Bridge Rd, Richmond VIC 3121
0485 856 565
Recent Comments