What checks should you perform on your car before setting off on holiday?

Holiday at last! But while you can sit back and relax, your vehicle has a lot to cope with. The greater load, high speeds, hot weather and long downhill stretches are a source of immense strain, not just for the brakes. To make sure your car gets you safely to your destination it is well worth giving some thought to a few important aspects before starting off:

• The tire inflation pressure should be adjusted to the next highest total vehicle weight for safer driving and to reduce fuel consumption and tire wear. Important information can be found in the owner's manual, on the inside of the tank flap, or on the door pillar.
• Do not load the vehicle beyond the limits specified in the vehicle documents.
• Check the condition of the jack, tool kit, hazard warning triangle and first aid kit and replace if necessary.
• Check the levels of windshield washer fluid and anti-freeze.
• Check the oil level and top up if necessary.

How is it best to pack the vehicle?



Have you any idea how much force can develop inside a vehicle on full braking or in an accident? Objects flying around as a result are often the cause of serious injuries to the occupants. Such situations need never arise if the following points are observed when packing your vehicle:

• Heavy objects should be stowed right at the bottom of the luggage compartment directly behind the backrest.
• Never pile up luggage to above the height of the backrests in station wagons and family vans if there is no sturdy partition.
• Try not to leave any gaps and pack individual items of luggage as closely together as possible.
• Fix the load in position or use non-slip mats.
• Make sure the driver's vision is not obstructed in any direction
• The hazard warning triangle and first aid kit should always be easily accessible.