World AIDS Day

Essential Checks Before a Long Car Journey

We all know we’re supposed to check our car before we set off on a long journey. But what does that actually involve?
These checks can be done by anyone at any time and will not need any special equipment or prior knowledge.

1.Check Your Tires
There are three elements that you should check:
Appearance
Tread
Pressure

2. Check Your Oil Levels
To check the oil level you will need to remove the dipstick. You should be able to easily locate this as it will be either a bright yellow or orange pull ring.
Once you’ve pulled out the dipstick you should then wipe it clean so that no residual oil remains and could provide a false level.

3. Check The Engine Coolant
It is especially important that this check and top up is done when the engine is cold, and we recommend leaving the vehicle for at least eight hours since it was last used before opening the coolant tank. This is because the coolant can get incredibly hot and with the pressure in the tank opening it when not cool can cause serious injury.

4.Make Sure Your Lights are Working
To check your headlights and high beams face the reflective surface, and turn them on. You can also check your cabin light, and your front fog light, if your vehicle has one.

5.Test Your Brakes
You should also check your brakes are working correctly before setting off.
There are two checks to complete. The first is to press down on the brake pedal before starting the engine, it should feel spongy and not slack at all. Then turn the engine on and conduct the second test. In a safe place you should apply the brakes firmly when driving. The vehicle should stop promptly and not pull to one side.

6.Check your battery
Before you head off you should check that your essential electric systems (battery) are working. A problematic battery will reduce the ability to supply electricity to a number of components, such as lights, wipers, door locks, air conditioners, audio systems and others. The characteristics are easy, these components do not work stably if the battery has a problem.

7.Fill Up
If you’re setting off on a long trip, then you should fill up at the fuel station.
Drivers should refuel their vehicle when they have anywhere between a quarter of a tank or half of a tank left for maximum efficiency.The less fuel in your tank, the greater the risk of running out completely in a bad spot.

For more info about car insurance, please call 021-50508080.