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The Pre-Road-Trip Car Check
The bags are packed. The padkos is prepared. The playlist has been debated at length.
Everyone's ready to start the road trip.
Except, perhaps, your car.
A few simple checks in the days leading up to you leaving can help you avoid potential trouble when you're hundreds of kilometres from home:
1. Start with your tyres
Check your tyre pressure against your vehicle manufacturer's recommendation and look for obvious damage or unusual wear.
And don't forget about the spare.
2. Check that you can see — and be seen
Test your headlights, brake lights, indicators and hazards.
Make sure your windscreen wipers are doing their job too and that there's enough washer fluid for the journey.
3. Take a look under the bonnet
Check important fluid levels such as oil and coolant according to your vehicle manufacturer's instructions.
And if your car has been making an unfamiliar noise, vibrating or displaying a warning light recently, don't wait. Have your vehicle checked immediately by a qualified professional so you don't have to delay the start of your road trip should a repair be needed.
4. Pack for the unexpected
Make sure your vehicle is equipped for emergencies: carry the right tools to change a tyre or have the manufacturer’s puncture‑repair kit on hand.
A warning triangle, first-aid kit and torch are also useful additions.
And if something still goes wrong?
Even after all the pre-trip checks, mechanical or electrical problems can still happen. That’s where having a Motor Warranty can make all the difference.
The Unlimited’s Motor Warranty covers over 100 major mechanical and electrical parts, depending on the plan you choose, and includes 24-hour Roadside Assistance for emergencies such as breakdowns, flat tyres and lost keys, subject to the relevant terms and conditions.
So do the checks. Pack the padkos. And make sure you’ve got backup for the road ahead.
Disclaimer: This article contains general information and is not a substitute for professional vehicle inspection, maintenance or financial advice. Product benefits and terms and conditions apply. The Unlimited Group (Pty) Ltd is an authorised Financial Services Provider (FSP 21473). Insurance benefits are underwritten by Dotsure Limited (Registration number 2006/000723/06), a licensed non-life insurer and authorised financial services provider (FSP 39925).
