How to Check Your Car Before a Long Journey: 5-Minute Checklist

A long journey is much easier when you know your car is ready for the road. You do not need to spend hours inspecting every component. A quick car health check before you leave can help you spot common problems and avoid unnecessary delays.

This simple 5-minute check car inspection covers some of the most important things to look at before setting off.

Your 5-minute car safety check

Before starting your journey, park your car on a flat surface and make sure the engine is switched off. Give yourself a few minutes to work through these checks.

1. Check your tyres

Look at all four tyres, including the spare if you have one. Check that:

• Tyres are inflated to the recommended pressure.
• The tread looks legal and evenly worn.
• There are no visible cuts, cracks, bulges or other damage.
• The tyre pressure is suitable for the load you are carrying.

Underinflated or damaged tyres can affect handling, braking and fuel efficiency. If you are travelling with extra passengers or luggage, check your vehicle handbook for the recommended pressures.

2. Check your lights

Switch on your headlights, indicators, brake lights, reversing lights and hazard lights.Walk around the vehicle to make sure they are working and that the lenses are clean.

Good visibility is particularly important if you will be driving at night or in poor weather.

3. Check your fluid levels

A quick check of your essential fluids can help prevent avoidable problems. Depending on your vehicle, check:

• Engine oil
• Coolant
• Screenwash
• Brake fluid
• Power steering fluid, if applicable

Always check your vehicle handbook for the correct procedure and only top up fluids when the engine and components are safe to handle.

4. Check your brakes

Pay attention to how your brakes feel before your journey. If the brake pedal feels unusually soft, the car pulls to one side when braking, or you hear grinding or unusual noises, do not ignore it.

A professional inspection may be needed before you start a long journey.

5. Check your windscreen and wipers

A clean windscreen helps you see clearly and reduces glare. Check for:

• Cracks or chips
• Dirt or obstructions
• Worn or damaged wiper blades
• Enough screenwash

A small windscreen issue can become much more noticeable during rain, especially on a long motorway journey.

A quick 10-point car check

If you have a little more time, turn your 5-minute inspection into a simple 10 point car check. This is not a replacement for a professional inspection, but it is a useful routine to complete before a long trip:

• Tyre pressure
• Tyre condition and tread
• Headlights and indicators
• Brake lights
• Engine oil
• Coolant
• Screenwash
• Windscreen condition
• Wiper blades
• Brakes

Do not forget your fuel or charge

Check your fuel level before leaving. If you drive an electric vehicle, make sure you have enough charge for the journey and know where suitable charging points are located along your route.

Planning ahead can help you avoid unnecessary stops and reduce the risk of running low.

Pack an emergency kit

It is also worth taking a few useful items with you, particularly if you are travelling a long distance. Consider carrying:

• Phone and charging cable
• Warning triangle, where appropriate
• First aid kit
• Torch
• High-visibility vest
• Water
• Basic tools
• Any medication you need
• Breakdown cover details

Knowing what to do if something goes wrong can make an unexpected problem much easier to manage.

What is a vehicle smart car check?

A vehicle smart car check or smart car check can refer to services that provide additional information about a vehicle, such as its history, mileage or recorded issues.

These checks are different from a physical full car health check. A vehicle history check can provide useful background information, while a physical inspection looks at the current condition of the car.

If you are buying a used car, consider using both where appropriate.

When should you get a full car health check?

A quick inspection is useful before a journey, but there are times when you should consider getting a professional full car health check. This could be worthwhile if:

• You are planning a particularly long road trip.
• Your car has recently developed an unusual noise or warning light.
• Your vehicle has not been serviced for some time.
• You are buying or selling a used vehicle.
• You have noticed changes in braking, steering or handling.
• Your car has recently been involved in an accident.

A professional can check areas that are difficult to assess during a quick driveway inspection.

How much is a car safety check?

The cost of a car safety check varies depending on the garage, vehicle and type of inspection.

Some garages may offer basic checks free of charge, while a more detailed inspection can cost more. A full service or professional vehicle inspection will generally cost more than a basic visual safety check.

Before booking, ask the garage exactly what is included so you can compare services and prices.

Be prepared for the unexpected

Even a thorough health check car routine cannot guarantee that nothing will go wrong during a journey. Mechanical problems can happen unexpectedly.

That is why having suitable breakdown cover can provide extra reassurance when you are travelling. CoverMy Breakdown can help you get assistance if your vehicle breaks down, helping you get back on the road when you need it most.

FAQs

How often should I check my car before a long journey?

Ideally, carry out a quick safety check before every long journey. Tyres, lights, fluid levels and windscreen condition are particularly important.

What should I check on my car before a long trip?

Check your tyres, lights, fluids, brakes, windscreen, wipers and fuel or charge level. Also make sure you have any essential documents and emergency items you may need.

Is a vehicle history check the same as a car inspection?

No. A vehicle history check provides information about a vehicle’s background, while a physical inspection assesses its current condition.

Should I get my car checked before a road trip?

Yes. A quick inspection can help identify obvious issues before you set off. If you notice a warning light, unusual noise or change in how the vehicle drives, have it checked by a qualified professional before travelling.

Can breakdown cover help if my car breaks down on a long journey?

Breakdown cover is designed to provide assistance if your vehicle breaks down, depending on the level of cover and policy terms. Having cover in place before your journey can give you additional peace of mind.

Choose the cover that’s right for you:

• Local Breakdown Cover from £13.87 a year
• National Breakdown Cover from £15.83 a year
• European Breakdown Cover from £18.86 a year

[1] Based on a Local Cover quote for a single vehicle that is less than one year old.
[2] Based on a National Cover quote for a single vehicle that is less than one year old.
[3] Based on a European Cover quote for a single trip policy covering a single vehicle that is less than one year old.