Ready, Set, Road Trip! Your Essential Summer Vehicle Safety Checklist

As summer approaches, families across the UK are gearing up for long-awaited holidays—whether it’s a scenic coastal drive, a countryside camping escape, or a sunny road trip through Europe. But before you pack the car or campervan with luggage, snacks and sun cream, there’s one vital question to ask:

Is your vehicle ready for the journey?

At Ferdotti, we’re committed to keeping families safe on the road. With our core values of Quality, Service, and Integrity, we’ve created this essential checklist to help ensure your vehicle is in top condition for a smooth and stress-free summer adventure.

1. Book a Pre-Holiday Vehicle Check

A quick visit to a trusted garage can save you from unexpected breakdowns or delays during your trip. At Ferdotti, our trained technicians use the latest tools and diagnostics to spot potential issues early.

Our Summer Vehicle Check includes:

• Tyre condition and pressure
• Brake inspection
• Fluid levels (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid)
• Battery health
• Air conditioning performance
• Lights and wipers

Peace of mind starts here—don’t set off without it.

2. Tyres: The Unsung Heroes of Road Safety

Your tyres are the only contact your vehicle has with the road, making their condition critical for safety:

• Check the tread depth (the legal minimum is 1.6mm, but 3mm is recommended for better grip)
• Look for visible damage such as cracks or bulges
• Ensure all tyres, including the spare, are inflated to the correct pressure

The right tyre pressure not only improves handling but also enhances fuel efficiency—particularly important when your vehicle is fully loaded for holiday travel.

3. Top Up Essential Fluids

Your vehicle relies on several key fluids to function properly. Make sure the following are topped up:

• Engine oil – helps prevent overheating and wear
• Coolant – regulates engine temperature
• Brake fluid – ensures effective braking
• Screenwash – keeps your windscreen clear for visibility

If you’re unsure which fluids to use or how to check them, our friendly Service Team will be happy to assist.

4. Battery Health Matters

Hot weather can affect your battery just as much as the winter cold. If your battery is more than three years old or you’ve noticed sluggish starts, it’s worth getting it tested.

We’ll check its charge and overall condition to make sure it won’t let you down halfway through your journey.

5. Keep Cool with a Working Air Conditioning System

Long drives during summer can quickly become uncomfortable without proper air conditioning. If it’s not blowing cold air, it may need re-gassing or a leak check.

We can ensure your system is running efficiently so your passengers stay cool and comfortable.

6. Pack an Emergency Kit

Even with careful preparation, things can go wrong. Equip your vehicle with the following essentials:

• First aid kit
• Warning triangle
• High-visibility vests
• Torch and spare batteries
• Mobile phone charger
• Jump leads
• Bottled water and snacks
• Copies of important documents (insurance, breakdown cover, driving licence)

Travelling abroad? Don’t forget to check the legal requirements of your destination country. For example, in France, you may need to carry items such as breathalysers, headlamp deflectors, and spare bulbs.

7. Don’t Overload Your Vehicle

It’s easy to overpack “just in case,” but exceeding your vehicle’s load limit can affect braking, handling, and fuel economy.

Check the maximum permitted weight in your owner’s manual and distribute the load evenly throughout the vehicle.

8. Clean Inside and Out

A clean vehicle isn’t just more pleasant—it’s safer too. Clear windows and mirrors improve visibility, and a tidy interior reduces distractions while driving.

Give your vehicle a thorough clean before you set off to make the journey more enjoyable for everyone on board.

Bonus Tips for Campervan Travellers

If you’re heading out in a campervan, take a few additional precautions:

• Gas and electrical systems – ensure everything is functioning and safety-certified
• Water systems – flush and refill fresh water tanks
• Interior safety – test smoke alarms, check fire extinguishers, and secure loose items
• Roof and awnings – inspect for wear or damage and make sure all components are properly secured

Trust Ferdotti to Keep Your Summer Rolling

At Ferdotti, we believe your holiday should begin the moment you leave the driveway—not with a breakdown on the hard shoulder. Our experienced technicians and welcoming service team are here to make sure your vehicle is road-trip ready.

Get in touch today to find out more.