Summer holiday vehicle checklist

While some dealerships do free holiday checks for their customers on an annual basis, do not worry if you’re not eligible. Here is a helpful list of what to pay attention to before hitting the road with your family this December.

• All lights, including indicators – are they working like they should?
• Seat belts
• Windscreen wipers – can they still do a proper job?
• Hooter
• Trailer socket
• All tyres, including the spare - remember to adjust tyre pressure once the car is loaded
• Battery condition
• Brakes front and rear, including the parking brake
• Steering mechanisms
• Front and rear suspension
• Exhaust system
• Wheel alignment
• Oil, coolant, brake/clutch fluids, power steering fluid and water levels - remember to check for any visible fluid leaks
• Air filter and cabin filter (a/c) - an abundant supply of clean air to your engine improves the vehicle's performance and efficiency.
• Emergency equipment - reflective warning triangle, first aid kit, jack, wheel spanner, puncture repair kit if no spare wheel, light tools – screwdriver, pliers, flashlight and a cloth

Most importantly, above all listed above, is to ensure your car is roadworthy and has its licence. You may get away with driving an unlicensed vehicle around the city, but once you’re in another province and you get pulled over, prepare yourself for a hefty fine.

If you do not feel confident about doing a safety check yourself, a reputable company like the AA can do a DEKRA safety check , ensuring that there are no mechanical issues that can ultimately ruin your holiday.