The Perfect Vehicle Inspection List
Going on a long journey in your car can be an exciting adventure, but it's essential to make sure that your car is safe and reliable before embarking on any trip. Regular car maintenance is crucial, and it's even more important when planning a long journey.
Before you hit the road, you need to perform a thorough safety inspection to ensure that your car is in top condition. Here are some essential safety inspections that you should do on your car before a long journey.
Check your tyres
One of the most critical components of your car that you should check before a long journey is your tyres. The condition of your tyres can affect your car's performance, fuel economy, and safety. You should check the tyre pressure and make sure that it's at the recommended level. Under-inflated tyres can cause your car to handle poorly, reduce fuel efficiency, and even cause blowouts. Over-inflated tyres can lead to reduced traction and uneven tyre wear.
During our 10-point car check, we will check your tyre pressures and top them up if necessary. To book a 10-point check, click the button below.
10-Point Check
You should also inspect the tread depth of your tyres. The tread on your tyres provides grip on the road, especially in wet conditions. If the tread depth is too shallow, it's time to replace your tyres. Check for any cuts, punctures, or bulges on the tyre sidewalls, which can indicate that the tyre is damaged and needs replacing.
We offer a FREE tyre check at National, to help give you peace of mind when driving. To book your car for a free check, click the button below.
Free Tyre Check
Check your brakes
Brakes are one of the most crucial safety features of your car. Before a long journey, it's essential to check your brakes and make sure that they're working correctly. If you notice any strange noises or vibrations when you apply the brakes, it could be an indication of a problem. You should also check the brake pads for wear and replace them if necessary.
You can also check the brake fluid level and ensure that it's at the recommended level. Low brake fluid can cause a spongy feeling when you apply the brakes, reducing your car's stopping power.
We also offer a FREE brake check, which can be booked by clicking on the link below.
Free Brake Check
Check your fluid levels
Fluid levels play a vital role in your car's performance and reliability. Before a long journey, you should check the oil level, coolant level, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid. You can find the recommended fluid levels in your car's owner's manual.
Low oil levels can cause engine damage and reduce your car's performance. Low coolant levels can cause your engine to overheat, which can be dangerous. Low power steering fluid can make it difficult to steer your car, and low transmission fluid can cause transmission damage. It's essential to top up any low fluid levels before you embark on a long journey.
Check your lights
Your car's lights play an important role in your safety on the road, especially when driving at night or in low light conditions. Before a long journey, check all your car's lights, including headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights.
You can ask someone to help you check your car's lights. Turn on the headlights, and have them check that both headlights are working correctly. Then, apply the brakes and make sure that the brake lights come on. Finally, turn on the turn signals and reverse lights to ensure that they're functioning correctly.
We can check your car's lights for FREE as part of our 5-point car check. To book a free check, click the button below.
5-Point Check
If you notice that your headlamps aren't both pointing straight, you may need them realigned. To book a headlight realignment, click the link below.
Headlamp Alignment
Check your battery
A dead battery can be frustrating, especially when you're on a long journey. Before you hit the road, check your car's battery and make sure that it's in good condition. You can use a battery tester to check the battery's voltage and ensure that it's within the recommended range.
If your battery is more than three years old, it's time to replace it, even if it's still working correctly. You don't want to risk having a dead battery on a long journey.
At National, we offer a FREE battery health check. To book your vehicle in for a check, click the button below.
Book Today
Performing a thorough safety inspection before a long journey can help prevent breakdowns, accidents, and unexpected expenses. By thoroughly checking your vehicle, you can drive with confidence knowing that you're safe on the road.
Did you enjoy this blog post? |
1 people found this review helpful
Sign up for SPECIAL OFFERS
