Is Your Car Ready for Summer Holidays?
Whether you’re loading up the boot for a family trip to Cornwall, heading off on a countryside escape, or planning a European road adventure, one question should come before “Are we there yet?” — Is your car ready for the journey?
As summer approaches, it’s easy to focus on packing and planning — but the car that’s getting you there deserves just as much attention. Breakdowns, overheating, and aircon failure are far more common in warmer months, especially during longer trips.
At Brede Garage, we want to help you enjoy a stress-free summer on the road. So we’ve created the ultimate guide to prepping your car for holiday travel — from everyday drivers to family adventures and even cross-border road trips.
? The Essentials — Summer Car Checks for Everyone
Before any trip, especially one that takes you beyond your local commute, a few simple checks can make a huge difference:
✅ Tyres
Check tread depth (minimum 1.6mm legal limit, but 3mm is safer for long trips)
Look for uneven wear or sidewall cracks
Inflate to recommended pressures — including the spare tyre
? Read more about why wheel balancing matters
✅ Oil & Fluid Levels
Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, screen wash — all should be topped up and clean
Old or low fluids can increase the risk of engine overheating or poor braking performance
? Learn about essential servicing tips for long-term car health
✅ Battery Health
Summer heat accelerates battery wear
If your battery struggles to start the car or is over 3 years old, book a battery check before you go
? Find out how diagnostic checks can spot early battery and electrical issues
✅ Air Conditioning
If your A/C isn’t blowing cold, it could be low on refrigerant or have blocked vents
Breathing clean, cool air improves comfort — especially on long journeys
? Read our blog about smelly aircon and what to do about it
? Understand the difference between aircon re-gassing and servicing
✅ Brakes
If they squeak, feel soft, or vibrate under pressure, don’t wait
Brake issues become more noticeable with heat and when carrying heavier loads
✅ Lights & Wipers
Check all bulbs are working (including fog and reverse lights)
Replace streaky or worn wiper blades for clearer vision in summer storms
? Book your summer check-up today with Brede Garage for peace of mind.
???? Family Road Trips — Comfort, Safety, and Sanity
Travelling with kids? Planning a caravan getaway? These tips can help make the ride smoother for everyone:
? Interior Comfort
Clean air filters help reduce hay fever and keep little lungs happy
Use windscreen sunshades when parked to protect interiors and keep things cool
? Child Seat Safety
Double check that car seats are properly secured and adjusted
Use ISOFIX if available and make sure seat belts aren’t twisted or worn
? Entertainment & Essentials
Pack a mix of activities, audiobooks, and snacks to keep boredom at bay
Plan in rest stops every 2–3 hours for bathroom breaks and movement
☀️ Avoid Cabin Meltdown
Cool the car before loading passengers
Bring cold drinks, wet wipes, and perhaps a clip-on fan for younger children
? Driving Abroad — Are You Europe-Ready?
Taking your UK vehicle abroad? Don’t get caught out — some preparation is essential:
? Documents & Legal Kit:
Ensure your insurance covers Europe
Carry driving licence, logbook (V5C), and travel insurance
Some countries require: reflective jackets, warning triangle, beam converters, spare bulbs, breathalyser kits (France)
? Headlight Adjustment:
If you’re driving a UK car in Europe, your headlights may dazzle other drivers
Use beam deflectors or adjust via settings if available
⛽ Fuel & Toll Tips:
Learn local fuel names (e.g. “Sans Plomb 95” = Unleaded in France)
Carry some change or a travel card for tolls
⚠️ Speed Limits & Signage:
Watch out for lower limits in rain or on certain road types
Signs and rules may vary — even between EU countries
? Emergency Kit Checklist
Keep these in your boot — whether you're heading 5 miles or 500:
Reflective triangle & high-vis vests
Spare tyre / tyre sealant & jack
First-aid kit & torch
Phone charger / power bank
Water & snacks
Ice scraper (yes, even in summer — you never know!)
Ready to Hit the Road? ?️
Your holiday should start the moment you leave the drive — not when you’ve been towed from the hard shoulder. A quick pre-summer check at Brede Garage can prevent holiday headaches and keep your car road-trip ready.
✅ Tyres, brakes, battery, oil & fluids
✅ Air conditioning service & recharge
✅ Brake inspection & battery health check
✅ Family-friendly support & honest advice
? Book your summer car check now and drive into your holidays with confidence.
Spidersnet