Car Care on the Road
Car Care Before Travelling: Safety Begins Before the Start
Whether it's a summer holiday, city break or weekend getaway - anyone travelling by car should not only prepare their destination well, but also their own vehicle. Car care means more than just cleanliness: it is a decisive factor for safety when travelling. Even minor defects can become a major problem on the motorway or abroad.
Car Holiday Check: for a Safe Journey Right from the Start
Holiday Check Before Departure
Before the journey begins, it is worth checking the most important vehicle components carefully - for safety and a relaxed arrival.
Tyres:
Check the tyre pressure and adjust it to the load of the car. Also check the tread depth and the general condition of the tyres - worn or damaged tyres pose a safety risk.
Car Lighting:
Check that both the exterior lighting (headlights, indicators, tail lights) and the interior lighting are working. Spare bulbs should be carried.
Brakes:
If the brakes squeal or a grinding noise can be heard, this may indicate wear. The same applies if braking behaviour feels unsafe: It is better to go to the workshop once too often than once too little.
Check Fluid Levels:
Check all relevant fluids such as engine oil, coolant and windscreen wiper fluid. Particularly important: Check the coolant and windscreen wiper fluid and top up if necessary - ideally with a seasonal additive.
Good Visibility = More Safety
Good visibility protects lives – and not just at night or in the rain.
Windows and Mirrors
Clean car windows regularly – inside and out. A clean windscreen is particularly important when the sun is low in the sky.
Windscreen Wipers:
Check the wiper rubbers for cracks or streaks. Replace worn wiper blades in good time so that visibility is not impaired.
Top Up Windscreen Wiper Fluid:
Always have enough in the tank - ideally with a summer or winter additive, depending on the weather.
When Travelling: Small Car Care, Big Effect
Simple car care can also help to increase safety when travelling:
1. Regular Visual Inspection
- Use refuelling stops or breaks to quickly check tyres, lights and windows
- Remove dirt, insects or road salt, as they can severely impair visibility and light
2. Clean the Car Interior
- No loose objects on the dashboard or rear seat - they can become a hazard in the event of sudden braking
- Keep the boot tidy: put heavy objects down and as close as possible to the rear seat backrest
Practical Helpers for on the Go
These things should be on board:
- Safety waistcoat, warning triangle & first aid kit (make sure they are in date!)
- Windscreen cleaner or wipes
- Jumper cables & torch
- Air pressure gauge
- Spare bulbs
Conclusion: Prevention Brings Security
Careful car care before travelling is not an optional extra, but a must for anyone who wants to arrive safely and stress-free. If you regularly check, maintain and prepare your car, you protect yourself and others - and drive off with a better feeling.