Drivers urged to check this on cars before tomorrow | Personal Finance | Finance
You may want to check your car if you are going away this bank holiday (Image: Getty)
Families heading off for the bank holiday in their car have been urged to do some pre-travel vehicle checks. You can potentially save some money with a quick inspection of your motor, as well as helping you avoid any problems on the road.
Experts at comparison site Carwow have shared some tips for drivers to consider ahead of the busy period. Consumer writer Siobhan Doyle said one key thing to check is your tyres, especially as the weather can be variable at this time of year.
She said: “The weather in May can be unpredictable, with sunshine one moment and rain the next. So it’s important to make sure your tyres are in good condition and keep you safe and stable on the road.”
Key measurement
The expert said to check your pressures, including for your spare tyre if you have one. You should also check your tyres for any cuts, bulges or even wear. A crucial check here is that your tread depth is legal – remember it needs to be 1.6mm.
Your tread must be at least this deep over three quarters of the tyre continuously. You can check this by placing a 20p coin into the main grooves of your tyre. If the outer band of the coin is not visible, the tread on your tyre is legally roadworthy.
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Ms Doyle warned it’s worth checking your tyres are properly inflated – as this could cost you financially. She said: “Even slightly under-inflated tyres can increase your fuel use and shorten driving range in electric cars, as well as affecting braking performance and grip. That’s especially important during bank holiday traffic, where wet spring roads can quickly reduce control and safety.”
Oils and vital fluids
Something to check under the bonnet is your vehicle’s oil and vital fluids. Here are three items for you to tick off the list:
- Engine oil: Make sure it’s at the right level for a smooth drive
- Coolant: This is especially important as temperatures rise and engines work harder in traffic
- Brake fluid: Check it is within the recommended level – these recommendations differ between make and model, and can be found in your owner’s manual.
Batteries
Your battery also warrants your attention to be sure it’s in working order. The expert said: “Although the weather this time of year is milder, batteries can still struggle after a stop-start winter of short journeys and intermittent use.
“With bank holiday travel often involving early starts or heavy traffic delays, any weakness can quickly show up. Key warning signs to watch out for are slow engine turnover, flickering dashboard lights and electrical glitches or lagging systems.”
She said a quick test of the battery if it is more than a few years old, can save you a lot of hassle if your power suddenly cuts out in traffic.
Lights, indicators, visibility
You may be hopeful for some warm weather this bank holiday weekend, but it’s important to be ready for all conditions. Ms Doyle explained what you need to check: “On busy roads this bank holiday, clear communication and visibility matter even more, so make sure you check your headlights – both full beam and dipped, your brake lights, indicators and hazards.
“And remember that spring pollen, dust, and road grime can also dull your car’s headlight lenses, so a quick wipe can noticeably improve brightness and safety.”
Windscreen, wipers and washer system
Given the changeable weather, it’s important that your wipers work efficiently and can clear your windscreen properly without smearing. The expert said: “Sudden showers followed by low sun glare can be a tricky combination – clean glass and effective wipers make a big difference.”
A final tip from Ms Doyle is to think about when you head off. She said: “May bank holiday traffic is among the busiest of the spring, with congestion often building from late morning as leisure trips and weekend getaways overlap.
“Setting off early or later in the evening can help you avoid the worst of the queues. Combine this with the five car checks above, and you’ll give yourself the best chance of a smooth, stress-free journey.”
