Summer Driving Check List

During the uncharacteristically hot and dry spell of weather throughout July, motorists have taken to their cars for road trips to beautiful locations around the UK. Whilst the wonderful weather is excellent for outdoor activities – or lack of if sun bathing is more your thing – we need to pay special attention to our cars and what we put in them in preparation for longer journeys.

We’ve put together a driving check list, a list of the essential things to pack and check prior to a long journey to ensure both you and your vehicle remain safe and sound when travelling from A to B during the hot summer days.

The Safety Essentials

 

Check your tyres and tyre pressure

Having the correct tyre pressure can save on fuel as well as increasing your traction with the road. An incorrect tyre pressure can lead to uneven ware and compromise the safety of your car whilst in motion. In addition to this you should also check your tyres before setting off. Legally your tyre tread must be at least 1.6mm thick, ideally more, so be sure to have your tyres checked and changed regularly if necessary. If you notice uneven wear this could be a sign of incorrect wheel alignment, which can be easily rectified at any auto centre.

Check your coolant and oil level

Make sure your engine oil and engine coolant levels are topped up – getting into the habit of performing general vehicle checks before you drive is essential and this is something you should always be aware of. If you notice your levels going down faster than they ought to, this could indicate a crack or leak in the piping systems, in which case you should contact your local mechanics as soon as possible.

Check your seat belts, including all passengers

This is something that is unlikely to be affected by the heat, but is essential none the less. If your belt doesn’t correctly function and you choose to drive without it, you will be breaking the law. Not only that, but if any of your passengers are forced to go without it is your responsibility too as you are the driver. It would be better to postpone your road trip than to lose a life due to a malfunctioning seat belt. Seat belts save lives, make sure you use them.

 

Optional Extras

 

Driving playlist

Whether you’re going on a journey with friends, family, or alone, having a playlist that’s suitably upbeat to make the warm journey more pleasurable is a must have. However, be sure to set it playing whilst you aren’t in motion – fiddling with an iPod, MP3 or any other music playing device will seriously affect your concentration which may already be wavering under the heat. Make safety your number one priority and switch tracks when you stop for a drink at a petrol station.

Ensure your air con or air filters are working

This is something every vehicle owner should know how to do, but if you don’t you can consult your local garage who can professionally check and recharge air conditioning if necessary. You ought to check your filters at least every 6 months or 7500 miles. Remove the filter and hold it up to a strong light or in front of a bright torch; if the light filters through effectively the filter is clean enough, but if the light is mostly blocked you should consider getting a replacement as soon as possible. Not having a working filter or air con won’t compromise the safety of your vehicle, but it could compromise yours. If you are too hot you are likely to faint, or become drowsy.

 

With this in mind, your summer road trips should be safe and successful!