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Heading out on a road trip? Here’s your 12-step car checklist

Road trip car checklist - what to do before heading on a long drive

Preparation is the secret to a successful road trip. Your car might feel and sound good to go, but it might not be the case. Particularly if you're heading out on a long drive.

If your destination is more than two hours one way, it's really worthwhile taking at least 10 minutes to give your car a quick check-over before you hit the road. Nothing takes the fun out of a road trip like breaking down and needing a tow.

  1. Make sure you have enough fuel, oil and radiator coolant.
  2. Check your tyres are properly inflated and have enough tread.
  3. Clean your windscreen, and make sure the wipers and washers are working.
  4. Make sure your fuel gauge and temperature gauge are operating correctly.
  5. Check that the spare wheel is secured and in good condition
  6. Check under your vehicle for obvious leaks when parked for a period of time - if you find a leak, we can assist.
  7. Make sure all your lights and indicators are working.
  8. If towing a trailer or caravan, make sure you understand your vehicle's towing capacity before checking the chains, couplings, sway bars, shackles and lights, and ensure that any awnings and doors are locked in place.
  9. Check up on your insurance and road-side assist cover.
  10. Make sure your car has had a service with a comprehensive safety check within a reasonable time frame prior to setting off.
  11. Find your car's spare key and keep it with you in case you lose the one you are using.
  12. If you can, make room for a shovel, torch, ropes, drop sheets, a battery charger and fuel can be helpful in a variety of situations. Your basic toolkit should include adjustable wrenches, screwdrivers (straight and Phillips head), wooden jack base, jack and pump, tyre repair outfit (including valve key), wheel brace and tyre levers, socket set, tow rope, electrical tape, suitable fuses and vehicle light globes.

You’re only as safe as the car you drive. Before any trip, it’s always good to pop in and get us to give your car a good going over. We might even be able to help you out with any last-minute 4WD accessories you may need! Book your car in today and beat the summer school holiday rush.