Holiday Road Trip Checklist: How To Get Your Car Ready For a Safe Christmas

As the festive season is in full swing, many Australians will hit the road for a summer holiday adventure. Whether you’re embarking on a rural road trip, cruising down the coastline, or visiting family, ensuring your car is road-trip ready is crucial. 

Below, Pearson Automotive has a comprehensive checklist to help you prepare your vehicle for a safe and hassle-free Christmas journey.

1 - Service Your Car Before You Go

Book a pre-trip car service to catch any issues before they turn into holiday roadblocks. A professional mechanic - such as those at Pearson Automotive, can inspect your engine, brakes, battery and fluids, ensuring everything is in top condition. Regular servicing can save you from breakdowns and keep your car running efficiently, especially during long trips in hot weather.

2 - Check Your Tyres, Including Your Spare

Your tyres are your car’s contact with the road, so their condition is critical for safety. Inspect the tread depth (it should be at least 1.5mm) and look for any signs of wear, cracks, or bulges. Ensure all tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, including the spare. Properly inflated tyres improve fuel efficiency and handling.

3 - Inspect Your Brakes

Reliable brakes are non-negotiable for road safety. Listen for unusual noises or vibrations when braking, as these could indicate worn brake pads or other issues. If you’re unsure, have a mechanic assess your brake system to guarantee peace of mind.

4 - Test The Battery

Australian summers can be tough on car batteries. Check for corrosion around the terminals and ensure it’s securely mounted. If your battery is more than three years old or showing signs of weakness (like slow engine starts), consider replacing it before hitting the road.

5 - Top Up Fluids

Fluids are essential for keeping your car running smoothly. Check and top up:

• Engine oil: Keeps the engine lubricated.

• Coolant: Prevents overheating.

• Brake fluid: Ensures responsive braking.

• Windscreen washer fluid: Clears the summer dust and bugs.

6 - Test Lights and Wipers

From dazzling coastal sunrises to unexpected summer storms, your lights and wipers must be in working order. Test all lights (headlights, brake lights, indicators) and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Ensure your wiper blades are streak-free, and top up the washer fluid.

7 - Pack an Emergency Kit

Even with the best preparation, emergencies can happen. Stock your car with essentials such as:

• A first-aid kit

• Jumper cables

• A torch with spare batteries

• Basic tools

• Bottled water and non-perishable snacks

8 - Plan For Comfort

Long road trips can be exhausting, so pack items for a comfortable journey. Sunglasses, a phone charger and plenty of water are must-haves. Don’t forget entertainment for the kids to keep everyone happy during the drive.

9 - Know Your Route

Before setting out, check your route for potential roadworks or closures. Download maps for offline use, and always let someone know your travel plans.

Hit The Road With Confidence

Taking the time to prepare your car will ensure a safer and more enjoyable Christmas road trip - and it doesn’t have to be a daunting task. 

Our professional mechanics at Pearson Automotive are here to help with thorough inspections, essential maintenance, and advice to ensure your vehicle is in top condition. Whether it’s a routine service, tyre check, or battery test, we can get your car road-trip ready, so you can travel with confidence this Christmas.

To help keep your car in its best possible condition, chat to our Milton mechanics today.

Safe travels, and Happy Holidays!