Bank Holiday Driving - Pre-Journey Checks

Finer weather and longer days results in more people making longer journeys over the bank holidays. To stay safe on the road, it’s advisable to check the following on your car before you go to avoid breakdowns.

Tyres

Good tyre condition is vital for safety. Worryingly, badly worn tyres can drastically affect the driving performance, braking distance and increase the risk of punctures. A hefty fine and points on your license could come your way too! Keep an eye on your tyre treads and pressures. Top them up with air before a long drive as under inflated tyres can contribute to higher fuel consumption and uneven wear.

Lights

Many people choose to drive long journeys at night to avoid traffic. If you plan to do this, ensure all your lights work. These include headlights, brake lights, indicators, fog lights, interior and dashboard lights as well as number plate bulbs.

Levels

Although with an electric car you don’t need to check you oil level it’s still very important to check your coolant and screen wash levels, as well as the wiper blade function, to help keep you safe on the roads.

Battery

While the usual advice for daily driving is to keep your charge between 20% and 80% to protect long-term health, a long journey is the exception to the rule. Feel free to charge your battery to 100% just before you depart; that extra buffer provides maximum range and peace of mind for the first leg of your trip. What’s more plan your charging stops in advance. Rather than waiting for a low-battery warning, use a dedicated route planner to identify high-speed rapid chargers along your path.

Brakes

Get a professional to check your braking system if you are in any doubt. Squealing or juddering when you brake are a possible sign of wear. Warning lights on your dash shouldn’t be ignored. Getting your brake fluid level and steering alignment checked or adjusted is strongly advised before a long journey.

Locking systems

For security, it’s important that your car locks properly. The last thing you need is a temperamental locking system that can’t be trusted. Test child locks if in use and carry some spare remote batteries in your wallet or handbag (not in the car). They can go flat at the most inconvenient time! Get any locking problems checked out before you go.

It’s worth keeping emergency breakdown supplies in the boot such as a warning triangle, torch and blanket. Various kits are available to buy from retailers.

Finally, check that your breakdown cover, MOT, car insurance and tax are all up to date with plenty of time left on them. Have a safe journey!

If you’d like us to check anything on your car before you go away just give us a call on 01202 148303 or email us at service@star-tech-ev.co.uk