Summer is nearly here… and families across Australia are preparing for the annual summer trip to the beach, outback, farm or countryside. Whether you are visiting friends in the city or family in the country, it’s sure to be an exciting trip. Amidst all the chaos of preparation, it can be easy to overlook the most important aspect of the journey – getting there and back safely.
Imagine: coasting along the freeway, engine humming, counting down the kilometres till you arrive safely at your destination.
Here’s the alternative: the engine’s making a funny noise, the windscreen wipers aren’t working and you’ve got a fine because the seatbelts are faulty.
Which scenario do you prefer? If it’s the former, then our team of expert car service specialists share their tips on getting your car ready for a big summer drive.
Summer drive preparation tip#1: have the car serviced
Get an expert with knowledge of your make and model of car to give it the full once over. That way you will have peace of mind knowing that everything is checked by a professional. Book your service in early so that if any repairs are needed, you have plenty of time to authorise them before your departure date. We are experts in servicing all makes of German cars, including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen and Audi. We can provide a thorough check of your vehicle, giving you peace of mind before your trip.
Summer drive preparation tip #2: check the tyres
Your lives depend on your car tyres, so it’s vitally important that they are in good working order before you hit the road. If the tread wear indicators are worn, then it’s time for replacement tyres. Make sure to check for air pressure as well. Refer to your owners’ manual for tips specific to your model vehicle. Check the spare too – it is often overlooked. The spare is your only solution if you get a flat tyre miles from nowhere. If in doubt, have the quality of your tyres checked by a professional for true peace of mind. Book in well in advance as this is their busiest time of year.
Summer drive preparation tip #3: check the fluids
If you get the car serviced, this will be taken care of, but it’s a good idea to know how to do this yourself. Top up your water and your windscreen wiper fluid – you don’t want to get a muddy windscreen without water to wash it off. Top up your oil, engine coolant and brake fluid if necessary. Keep spares of water and oil in the car to use in case of emergency.
Summer drive preparation tip #4: know your skills
Do you know how to change a flat tyre? How to use jumper leads? When emergency strikes, all you have is your skills. So it’s a good idea to brush up on the basics. Check out the thousands of how to videos on You Tube before you depart.
Summer drive preparation tip #5: check the battery
If your battery is more than four years old it would be a good idea to have it replaced before you travel. Check your battery visually for signs of corrosion, leaks or cracks, and replace if you are in any doubt.
Summer drive preparation tip #6: check your roadside insurance
It’s a good idea to ensure your insurance is up to date so you can call on roadside assistance if necessary. The last thing you want is to call your roadside assistance only to find that your subscription has lapsed. Check if you’re covered for expensive extras, like towing. Make sure to find out what exactly your policy does and does not cover.
Summer drive preparation tip #7: check the cooling
Nothing spoils a summer road trip like a busted air conditioning unit. Have a professional check the air conditioning annually to ensure it is in tip top working order. Here at Volks Affair we offer an air conditioning service for all makes of German vehicles.
Summer drive preparation tip #8: be prepared
Make sure your owners’ manual, emergency numbers and up to date contact information is all stored safely in the glove box. Extras like torches, blankets, snack food and portable phone chargers are a great idea too – your future self might just be very grateful you packed them!
With all these checks in place, you are certain to have a great summer road trip – weather permitting of course… Happy driving!