Planning a summer road trip? Do these checks first
But before you start packing the car, it’s recommended you do some planning, beyond choosing snacks and playlists.
RACQ Auto Services Manager Duane Wisby said conducting basic vehicle checks could help prevent breakdowns and keep your journey incident-free.
“If your car is near its scheduled service date or you have concerns, get a service and safety check from a qualified mechanic. Otherwise, there are basic checks you can do yourself,” Mr Wisby said.
1. Are you due for a scheduled service?
If your service is due, get it done before you go. RACQ research revealed nearly one in three (32%) Queenslanders are postponing essential car maintenance due to ongoing cost-of-living pressures. It’s essential your car’s servicing is up to date, especially before a long road trip.
2. Fluids
Check oil and fluid levels, including engine coolant, power steering fluid, and brake and clutch fluid. If your car isn’t due for a service, pop the bonnet and inspect the levels yourself.3. Wipers and washer fluid
Wipers are essential for clearing rain, dust, and bugs. Replace them if they shudder or streak. Check windscreen washer fluid levels and top up if needed.4. Check your windscreen
Check your windscreen for chips or cracks. These can become a bigger problem and require a windscreen replacement if not repaired.
5. Tyres
Ensure tyres have at least 3mm of tread (legal minimum is 1.5mm) to effectively displace water in heavy rain. Look for cracks or bulges. Check tyre pressure – including the spare – using your car’s placard or manual for recommended levels.6. Battery
Watch for signs of a weakening battery, such as the engine starting slowly or sounding different. Other signs include warning lights due to low voltage and clocks or radios losing their settings. If in doubt, get the battery tested and replace it if recommended. RACQ’s roadside assistance fleet responded to 736,924 calls for help in FY25, with nearly half (45%) related to battery issues.7. Lights and indicators
Confirm all lights and indicators are working. Faulty lights are a safety hazard and can result in fines. Check them regularly.8. Roadside assistance
No matter how prepared you are, there’s always a risk of an unwanted roadside incident. If you have RACQ roadside assistance, check that it provides the right cover for your trip. If not, consider purchasing it. Visit racq.com/roadside.
8. Insurance
Make sure your coverage is up to date and suited to your travel plans. Knowing you have suitable cover means you can focus on the adventure, and avoid any stress. If you are already covered, then review your policy. If you need cover, check out RACQ car insurance.
10. First-aid kit
It’s recommended motorists carry a first-aid kit and high-vis vest in case of a breakdown or emergency.Completing these checks will help ensure a safe and smooth summer road trip.
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The information in this article has been prepared for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal advice or specific advice to any particular person. Any advice contained in the document is general advice, not intended as legal advice or professional advice and does not take into account any person’s particular circumstances. Before acting on anything based on this advice you should consider its appropriateness to you, having regard to your objectives and needs.
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RACQ Operations Pty Ltd (ABN 80 009 663 414 AR 000234978) and Members Travel Group Pty Ltd (ABN 45 144 538 803 AR 000432492) are acting as an Authorised Representative of the issuer of the insurance, Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd. (ABN 80 000 438 291 AFSL 246 548). Any advice set out above is general in nature only, and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before purchasing any travel products, please consider the RACQ Travel Insurance Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and the Target Market Determinations (TMDs) that apply to these products. Whilst the PDS outlines the Terms and Conditions of these products, the TMDs outline the intended class of customers that comprise the target market for these travel products. This will allow you to consider which products best suit your objectives, financial situation and needs and consider the products appropriateness to your personal circumstances. TMDs also outline matters involving the distribution and the review of these products. The PDS, Supplementary PDS and TMDs for each travel product can be found here.