So it’s time to load up the car and head off on that well earned break or maybe you’re getting ready to visit Auntie Millie for Xmas — you know, the family member who still can’t understand why you’re not married yet. Before you set out however, you need to give some thought to your trusty velocipede, so you don’t end up stranded in the middle of nowhere, like this guy.

Now if your destination is around the corner that’s one thing, but if the road trip stretches to somewhere out of town there are a few steps you might want to take to ensure your happy safe arrival.

Your biggest priority might be whether the stereo is sounding good, your iPod is connecting or the aircon is working well —  However, I know it’s terribly boring but we also need to consider tyres, brakes and engine as well before setting off over the border.

Now if you don’t know a thing about your car, get some help. Use a competent butch friend or take your pride and joy to a mechanic. Most mechanics will do a safety inspection for free. If you are at all concerned about your brakes have them checked by an expert. ACT Brakes do a free brake inspection. It’s a bit late to find out that your brakes aren’t working when you are halfway down the Clyde with limited escape options and a roof rack full of crap.

Also remember that between now and Christmas most mechanics will get very busy, so don’t leave repairs until the last minute. Lack of planning on your part may not constitute an emergency for your mechanic! Be mindful that most of the motor trade closes from Christmas Eve through to mid-January, so if you run into a problem during this period the drama will surely be compounded by closed workshops and warehouses.

So what can an ignoramus do themselves? Check your tyres. Tread should be enough to cover a match head when you poke a match into the grooves — all the way across the tyre too. Tyres should wear evenly.

Uneven wear indicates issues that need sorting before you head off on your journey. Visually check and make sure there are no nicks or cuts in the side of the tyre, and if you feel confident check your tyre pressure.

Most garages have automatic tyre inflation machines these days, so it’s just a case of looking up your pressure, dialing it up on the machine and hooking the nozzle onto the valve. Most car manufacturers slightly understate pressure to give the impression you are getting a smooth ride. You can be safe and your tyres will generally last longer if you go about 5 PSI (pounds per square inch) above the recommended pressure. Over inflated or under inflated tyres will wear quicker and won’t be as safe as well maintained tyres. Your recommended tyre pressure will be written in the handbook or on a sticker in the driver’s door aperture or glove box lid.

Check your oil and water and top up both as required. Your handbook that came with the car should have instructions on this, or you can email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it if you need some pointers. Do not over fill either of them. Your engine only needs about 4-5 litres of oil in the bottom of the engine. This should be measured with the dipstick. I have seen someone fill their car right to the top and it predictably blew up, costing them a fortune. It is also wise to top up your washer bottle and add some washer fluid to help wash those summer bugs away.

Now we have the car sorted, you’re ready to go! Oh and don’t ask me for advice on what to say to Aunt Millie when she insists that you must use separate beds and attend midnight mass — I only know about car stuff!

About Stuart Poole
Stuart has been a car enthusiast as long as he can remember and greased up more moving parts than one can possibly imagine.