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If you’re planning a road trip soon, it’s worth being mindful of what might potentially go wrong.

By anticipating problems and taking steps to avoid them, you’ll stand a much better chance of enjoying your trip!

Car Battery

If your car’s battery isn’t working, you won’t be able to turn the engine or start the car. This is terrible news if you’re stranded in unfamiliar territory. If you’re driving a BEV, then you might worry about how your use of the aircon and entertainment systems might affect your range – but, according to research from Which? this effect is minimal.

Tyres

As your tyres age, they’ll exert less and less grip on the road beneath them. What’s more, they’ll be more likely to suffer a puncture. As such, it’s a good idea to invest in quality tyres, and get them replaced shortly before you head out. Naturally, you’ll also want to ensure your tyres are adequately inflated.

Engine fails

Your engine might fail for a variety of reasons. Pay attention to the way that it sounds, and make sure that you’re regularly topping up your oil levels. For peace of mind, you can arrange your annual service such that it’s carried out in the build-up to your trip.

No fuel

Running out of fuel can cause your trip to quickly grind to a halt. This is easily done, especially if you’re in the habit of allowing your tank to run down into the red. Plan your fuel stops and always leave yourself a reserve in the tank. If you’re driving an electric vehicle, make sure that you have alternatives in mind in case the first charging station you arrive at is out of action.

Lights

Brake lights serve an essential function: they let the car behind you know you’re stopping. Without them, you’re at risk of being rear-ended. Make sure that your brake lights are working, and that you have spares onboard before you set out. You can take the same precautions with every other light in your car. If you aren’t doing a lot of night driving, then you might be surprised at how easily a burned-out light can escape the notice of the driver.

Faulty wipers

Your windscreen wipers are designed to be replaced every so often. The rubber strip that runs along the bottom will rub along the window, and eventually wear out. Replacing the wiper blade is easy, and you should know how to do it. Carry spares around with you, too. In wintry conditions, it’s easy for your wipers to become frozen solid. Don’t try to force them free – you risk burning out the motor that way.

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