Summer can put any vehicle to the test. High road temperatures, long-distance driving and the added weight of luggage make a basic but thorough pre-trip inspection essential before setting off.
Tyres: Your car's only contact with the road
Tyres carry the full burden of keeping passengers safe. Before departure, make sure to check the following:
- Tyre pressure: Always check pressure when the tyres are cold, using the manufacturer's recommended settings for a fully loaded vehicle. Incorrect pressure can negatively affect braking, stability, fuel consumption and tyre lifespan.
- Tread depth: While the legal minimum is 1.6mm, Kumho Tire recommends maintaining a tread depth of at least 3mm. Adequate tread improves grip and helps prevent aquaplaning during sudden summer downpours.
- Visual inspection: Look for cuts, bulges, sidewall damage, embedded nails or stones and uneven wear patterns that could lead to a blowout during the journey.
Spare wheel versus tyre repair kit
Dealing with a puncture starts with knowing what equipment your vehicle carries.
If your vehicle has a spare wheel:
- Check the pressure of the spare tyre, which is often neglected for months.
- Ensure the jack and wheel tools are present and usable.
- Consider performing a practice tyre change at home to familiarise yourself with the process.
If your vehicle has a tyre repair kit:
- Ensure the portable air compressor is functioning properly.
- Check the expiry date of the sealant liquid.
- Be aware that repair kits are effective only for small punctures in the tread area. They cannot repair sidewall damage or major tyre failures. In such cases, roadside assistance will be required.
Load distribution and driving habits
A fully loaded vehicle behaves differently on the road.
- Weight distribution: Place luggage as low as possible in the boot. Heavy items should be positioned at the bottom to keep the vehicle's centre of gravity low and improve handling.
- Safe following distances: Increased weight means longer braking distances. Leave extra space between your vehicle and the one ahead.
- Smooth driving: Avoid sudden acceleration and abrupt steering inputs, which place additional stress on already hot tyres.
- Rest stops: Plan to stop every two hours. This allows the driver to rest and provides an opportunity for a quick tyre inspection.
Final pre-departure checklist
Before turning the key, make sure you have checked the following:
- Vehicle fluids: Engine oil, brake fluid, coolant and windscreen washer fluid.
- Visibility and lighting: Ensure all exterior lights are working and the wiper blades are in good condition.
- Air conditioning: Check that the system is operating effectively for comfort during hot-weather driving.
- Valid documents:
- Vehicle registration certificate
- Driving licence
- Insurance documents and roadside-assistance contact details
- MOT/roadworthiness certificate and emissions inspection certificate
A few minutes of preparation before departure can significantly reduce the risk of breakdowns and help ensure a safer and more enjoyable holiday journey.
