For many Australians, this time of year means road trips, school holidays and long drives to see family or chase warmer weather. While packing snacks and planning routes is second nature, too many drivers forget to prepare the one thing that matters most, their car.

Long drives put sustained pressure on your vehicle in ways normal commuting doesn’t. Engines run hotter for longer, braking systems work harder under load, and air conditioning is pushed to its limits. A car that feels “fine around town” may struggle once it’s been on the highway for hours.

A proper pre-trip check starts with fluids. Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and transmission fluid all need to be at the correct level and in good condition. Old or contaminated fluids reduce efficiency and increase wear, especially during long drives.

Tyres deserve special attention. Check tread depth, tyre pressure (including the spare) and look for uneven wear. Overloaded vehicles and hot roads significantly raise the risk of tyre failure if tyres aren’t in good shape.

Air conditioning is another must. Not just for comfort, but for driver focus and fatigue reduction. Weak airflow, odd smells or inconsistent cooling are signs your system may need servicing before the trip.

Brakes, lights, wipers and suspension should also be inspected. Add luggage, passengers and higher speeds to the mix, and any existing weakness becomes more noticeable.

A mechanic-led pre-trip inspection gives you confidence and reduces the chance of holiday-ruining breakdowns. At Auto Leaders, technicians understand the demands of Australian road conditions and can assess whether your vehicle is truly road-trip ready.

Book a pre-holiday check with Auto Leaders.