Kiwis are avid road-trippers! We love packing our wagon to the gunnels and hitting the road in search of adventure! But, as we well know NZ weather is anything but reliable. It can be blue skies and sunshine one day, then torrential rain the next. Ergo when you hit the road, you must be prepared to drive in all conditions!
Here’s a handy list of 8 tips to see you on your way trouble-free!
1. Check your battery
Before you head off on your next road trip, it might pay to have your battery tested, especially if you’ve never replaced it or can’t recall when you did. An aged battery will come under pressure during a long road trip.
Hot temperatures can cause the battery’s liquid to evaporate and prevent it from functioning optimally. Whilst frequent air conditioning use adds to the demand.
Dusty roads, sandy beaches or just dirt from long road trips can also build up around the battery’s terminals and drain power – so keep them clean.
2. Engine cooling system
Your vehicle’s cooling system will receive a real workout during a road trip, so it must be in good condition. Ensure that coolant levels are where they should be and that all hoses and belts are not showing any obvious signs of wearing. Any corrosion, leaks or cracks could end in disaster and see you stranded.
3. Tyre health
Typically, we travel longer distances with heavier loads during the holidays, making regular pressure checks critical. Not only will this help to protect the longevity of your tyre’s life, but it will also ensure that your vehicle is safer on the road.
You should check your tyre pressure once a month and always when the tyres are cold.
To ensure your tyres wear evenly, rotate them every 10,000 km.
4. Keep it clean
Dusty roads, sand and general debris can really punish your car’s paintwork, especially when combined with exposure to the intense summer sun. We recommend that you wash your vehicle immediately after returning from holiday. If you can extend this to a wax treatment, you will add an extra layer of protection.
5. Driving efficiently
With the price of petrol these days, it pays to be across all the simple hacks that can help to reduce fuel consumption.
Such as:
- Don’t drive around with an unnecessary weight
- Load roof racks as low as possible or use a roof box
- Don’t have the air con on while windows are open (open windows also create drag)
- Fit window and windscreen shades to prevent the car from heating up too much while it’s parked
6. Take regular breaks
Long journeys in the heat can sap a driver’s energy. It is important to stop and take regular breaks to prevent the onset of fatigue.
We recommend that you take regular breaks for at least 20 minutes. Get out of the car, stretch, and have a drink and something to eat. And, if that break happens to be by a beach, lake or river, and the weather permits, grab a quick refreshing swim!
7. Drive to the conditions
Despite the weather, the roads are much busier during the holidays, so you must drive to the conditions. This means reducing your speed, increasing your travelling distances and keeping your eyes on the road at all times!
8. Get the tick from your mechanic
Of course, there is much to be done when preparing for a holiday. It can be overwhelming. One of the best ways to ensure your car is up for the road trip challenge is to service your car regularly throughout the year. If you have any concerns before you head away, book it in for an inspection.