Heat, heavy weight, poor preparation – breakdowns are an increasing threat on vacation trips. The key to arriving safely at your vacation destination is regular maintenance and good preparation. If you have your vehicle checked by your garage at regular intervals, you will not only arrive safely, but you will also ensure that your vehicle retains its value. In preparation for your vacation trip, you should definitely check the fluids, tires, air pressure and lights.

1. check the lighting

It takes less than two minutes to check the lighting. Some countries require you to carry spare lamps, and it is always a good idea to have an assortment of the most important lamps and fuses on board. If you are traveling with a trailer, you should also have spare lights on board. Many countries prescribe driving with lights on during the day. If you are unsure, it is generally better to drive with dipped headlights on. To prevent your loaded car from dazzling you must lower the headlights of your vehicle. In vehicles with automatic headlamp leveling or xenon lights, this is done automatically.

2. check air pressure only when tires are cold

The tire pressure values apply to cold tires. Even journeys of less than ten kilometers heat up the tires. Therefore, only ever check the air pressure when the tires are cold.

3. longer trips on the highway

For driving on the highway, I recommend that you inflate your tires to a higher pressure. The correct air pressure for each load condition can be found in the vehicle’s operating instructions and, in the case of cars, also on the inside of your fuel filler flap or door.

Don’t forget: After the vacation tour you have to lower the inflation pressure of your tires back to normal pressure!

4. on the road with the caravan

The correct air pressure is particularly important for caravans. Take a look at the tires. If there are brittle spots or cracks, the tires should be replaced, even if the tread is still good. Because trailers don’t usually drive that much, the tires rarely reach their wear limit, but rather become too old. In this context, I would like to draw your attention to the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO): If the trailer is approved for 100 km/h, the tires must not be older than six years.

5. liquids

In any case, you should check the engine coolant level, as the engine cooling system is under a lot of strain, especially in traffic jams. You should also take a look at the engine oil level. Because it can rain even on vacation, don’t neglect your windshield washer system. A special additive for the summer helps to remove insects from the windshield. Also important for a clear view: functional wiper blades.

6. check windshield wiper blades

If the wiper blades leave a greasy film when wiping, first check whether the windshield and rubbers are free of wax and grease. If not, clean both with alcohol. If they are still greasy, they need to be replaced. The following applies to the windows: not only should they be free of grease, they should also be cleaned regularly inside and out. This also applies to the rear view: don’t forget to clean the exterior mirrors.

Tatjana wishes you a safe journey.