With many of us spending our summer holidays in the UK, or preferring to drive over to the continent, The Motor Ombudsman, the automotive dispute resolution provider, is advising motorists to ensure their vehicles are legal and roadworthy.

To help ensure that you’ve “covered” all the bases this summer,  we’ve produced the following guidance to help you stay safe when travelling on the road, whether it’s for a staycation in the UK, or if you’re planning to head across the channel.

Tread carefully

Regular tyre maintenance is critical, as the small contact patch is the only surface separating the vehicle from the road. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, and around the complete circumference of the tyre.

Inserting a 20p coin into the tread of the rubber is a quick and easy test to determine whether the depth is above the legal limit. If the outer band of the piece cannot be seen when it’s inserted, then the tread is sufficient. Furthermore, look out for splits or bulges, as high summer temperatures can heat up tyres and aggravate any existing damage to the rubber.

All tyres, including the spare (for example, if your car is not equipped with run flats), should be inflated to the pressures as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer (a sticker can normally be found on the door frame which indicates the levels in bar and psi). Remember that they should only be checked when they are cold and have not been in use for a few hours. Under-inflation, which a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) should indicate, can affect wear, handling and grip, especially during periods of inclement weather.

At its best when fluid

Fluids and lubricants are a lifeline for a vehicle so that it can operate correctly. These include oil, screen wash and air conditioning coolant, and all should be topped up to the advised levels. It’s always best to take your car to the garage if you’re not sure where to replenish the fluids and lubricants under the bonnet, and how much to put in.

It’s in the small print

Having valid documentation is essential for staying on the right side of the law when on the road. Make sure that your insurance policy, car tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) and MOT certificate are all up to date prior to setting off. And read on for more info on documentation you may need to take if you’re travelling abroad.

Breaking down the essentials

Planning for the unknown is essential, and therefore it’s important that you have an appropriate breakdown policy which provides the right level of cover, including for travelling abroad if appropriate. Also, check what emergency equipment you have in the car (such as jump leads, a warning triangle and tyre sealant – if there’s no spare), and what you need if you’re planning to visit other countries. Moreover, the vehicle’s handbook (usually found in the glovebox), often contains useful advice and troubleshooting information should something go wrong.

Lighting up the road

Although the summer season is traditionally a period when there is the most daylight, it’s still important that all front headlights, LED running lights, fog lights and rear lamps should be operating at their full potential and cleaned at least once a week to stay safe when travelling in the dark or when visibility is poor.

Stick to the rules for driving abroad

Road laws vary by country, and the essential equipment that needs to be carried also differs. For example, for those crossing the channel to France, a UK sticker on the back of the car, a warning triangle and high visibility reflective jackets are essential. You may also require headlamp beam converters. And you will also need to have all the necessary documentation with you such as your driving licence, valid insurance, a valid MOT certificate if your vehicle is over three years old, and your V5 document. Check out our Drive Europe guide for more info.

Make a point to charge ahead

Sales of electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid cars are increasing, and therefore, if you drive one of these models, it’s important that you are aware of the location of battery charging points along your route, whether in the UK or on the continent. Research how many miles you are planning to cover, what the distance is between charging stations, and if your accommodation has points available so that you can make sure your car has sufficient range for your trips.

Equally as essential is the health of your battery as it drives the car’s electronic systems. If your vehicle is difficult to start, and the battery is more than five years old, you should look at getting it replaced, as a flat battery is one of the main causes of breakdowns. This will help to avoid any unnecessary interruptions to journeys during the holiday period.

Access is key…

And therefore make sure that you know the alternative method for getting into the car if the key fob fails or loses power. This is usually detailed in your vehicle’s handbook.

Fuel for thought…

Do not fill the fuel tank completely, especially on hot days. As with most liquids, fuel will expand, and this could lead to it leaking out of the filler neck of the tank or breather. With prices at the pump on the rise, you can check online where the cheapest unleaded, diesel or LPG in a selected area of the UK can be found.

Also, try not to use the air conditioning for the whole duration or your journey, and only turn it on once all doors and windows are closed. Similarly, it’s best to switch it off once the air conditioning has cooled the inside of the car to reduce fuel consumption.

Keep it light

Carrying unnecessary items in the car may also raise fuel use. Therefore, if they are not required, remove any racks or boxes from the roof as these can create drag, and try to be realistic about what you will need when packing for your summer holiday.

Entertainment for the kids

To avoid the common question ‘are we there yet?’ Remember to plan ahead with entertainment for the kids. Ensure that all devices such as tablets and phones fully charged and ready with a few pre-downloaded films, and also remember their chargers and battery packs. It’s also a time to get back to basics with traditional games of ‘I-spy’, jokes, riddles and a good sing-along!

Know how to find a garage you can rely on

Breaking down or needing a repair on your vehicle during a summer getaway can be a worrying time, especially when you’re used to having a local, trusted garage you know you can rely on. The Motor Ombudsman’s online Garage Finder will help you to locate your nearest CTSI-Approved Code accredited business. You’ll be able to read reviews and find their contact details, so you can get back on the road and free to enjoy the rest of your trip!

The post Stay covered this summer with TMO’s summer driving tips appeared first on The Motor Ombudsman.

The Motor Ombudsman has therefore issued the following top tips for vehicle owners to stay safe when travelling on the road this summer, whether for a staycation in the UK or when going abroad.

Know your tyres in-depth

Only a small contact patch separates a car from the road, so good tyre maintenance is critical. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, and around the complete circumference of the tyre. Furthermore, all rubber, including the spare, should be inflated to the pressures as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer (a sticker can normally be found on the door frame). Under-inflation, which a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) should indicate, can affect wear, handling and grip, especially throughout unsettled periods.

Keep it fluid

Cars rely on fluids and lubricants to operate efficiently, and all should be topped up to the advised levels. These include fuel, oil and windscreen washer. Wipers should equally be streak-free, so front and rear screens offer the best possible clarity when driving, especially on sunny summer days.

Stay on top of paperwork 

It is not only the physical condition of the car which is important; supporting documentation for the vehicle should also be in good order. A valid MOT certificate, up to date road tax and a current insurance certificate, car taxation (if applicable) and servicing schedule are all required to comply with existing motoring laws in the UK.

Light at the end of the road

Bulbs in all front headlights, fog lights and rear lamps should be operating at their full potential and cleaned at least once a week to stay safe when travelling in the dark or when visibility is poor.

Good brakes are vital

Brakes are some of the most crucial pieces of technology on a car, and they play an even greater role during periods of inclement weather. To help drivers know when parts need changing, the degree of wear of pads and discs is often assessed during routine servicing and maintenance. However, sensors on some cars will also indicate when these components are in need of replacement.

Stay in charge of the battery

Today’s vehicles have more electronic systems on board than ever, all of which depend on the battery. A flat battery is one of the main causes of breakdowns. If the car is difficult to start, and the battery is more than five years old, you should look at getting it replaced. This will help to avoid any unnecessary interruptions to journeys during the holiday period.

Be prepared for the unknown this summer

It’s a known fact that there is the possibility that things can go wrong when travelling on holiday. Therefore, it’s best to keep an emergency kit and supplies in the car in the event of a major fault or breakdown. This is particularly relevant if travelling abroad, as laws vary by country for what needs to be carried. It is recommended that drivers pack items such as a first aid kit, a torch and batteries, fluorescent jacket, jump leads and a warm blanket.

Know the rules

Road laws vary by country, and the essential equipment that needs to be carried also differs. For example, for those crossing the channel to France, a UK sticker on the back of the car, a warning triangle and high visibility reflective jackets are essential. You may also require headlamp beam converters. And you will also need to have all the necessary documentation with you, such as your driving licence, valid insurance, a valid MOT certificate if your vehicle is over three years old, and your V5 document.

Keep it in range

If you own an electric car, make sure that you take any charging cables with you and know where the key charging points are along your route, especially if you are planning to head across to the continent.

Know how to find a garage you can rely on

Breaking down or needing a repair on your vehicle during a summer getaway can be a worrying time, especially when you’re used to having a local, trusted garage you know you can rely on. The Motor Ombudsman’s online Garage Finder will help you to locate your nearest CTSI-Approved Code accredited business. You’ll be able to read reviews and find their contact details, so you can get back on the road and free to enjoy the rest of your trip!

The post Top tips to stay safe on the roads this summer appeared first on The Motor Ombudsman.

With many of us hitting the roads for a break this summer, here are some useful tips to keep you on the go.

Stay cool!

Check fluid levels – brake, clutch, power steering, oil, and coolant levels are up to the mark (refer to the handbook if in any doubt). Fill the windscreen-washer bottle using a screen wash additive to help clear traffic film and dead insects. You’ll get through screen wash at a prodigious rate in summer conditions, so it might be worth carrying a spare bottle

Clean the windscreen, windows and mirrors. Check front and rear wiper blades for wear or splitting.

Check and adjust tyre pressures – increasing them for heavy loads, particularly if towing or if you have a full car, heavy luggage or full roof boxes. You can find the correct pressures in the car’s handbook.

If a service is due shortly, get it done before you go on holiday – repairs can be more expensive away from home, especially if you are driving to the European mainland.

If a service isn’t due, make sure you check your car over before setting off. Pay close attention to the condition of hoses, make sure the coolant level and mixture is correct and ensure that the belts that drive the alternator and power steering are not loose or cracked. A couple of pounds for some summer coolant or a new rubber belt could save a fortune in breakdown fees. Many garages offer free or low-cost summer checks that will provide welcome reassurance that you won’t splutter to a halt halfway to the beach.

Beware of punctures

Check tyres for splits or bulges as high summer temperatures heat up tyres and aggravate any existing damage to the rubber. Under-inflation compounds this, causing friction and added heat which can prove too much for weak spots, causing punctures and blow-outs.

Check the manufactures’ manual to establish the correct air pressure for your vehicle.

For anyone travelling long distances with a full car and heavy luggage it is vital to find out the pressure level for a fully loaded vehicle.

Remember that tyre pressure should only be checked when tyres are cold and have not been in use for a few hours.

Keep your key fobs safe

Its all to easy to lose your keys on the beach or whilst you are out and about during the summer. Keep keys safe and dry but also make sure that you know the alternative method for getting into the car if the key fob fails. This is usually detailed in your vehicle’s handbook.

Overheating

Aggravated by extreme summer temperatures, failure to keep coolant levels topped up, leaking coolant hoses and broken cooling fans can all result in overheating and temperatures high enough to cause severe and expensive engine damage.

To avoid disaster ensure that you regularly check coolant and fluid levels. Follow our guide maintenance guide to find out more.

Fuel saving tips

Do not fill the fuel tank to the brim on especially hot days. As with most liquids fuel will expand. This could lead to fuel leaking out of the filler neck of the fuel tank or breather.

Don’t use the air conditioning all the time. Once the air conditioning has cooled the inside of the car, turn it down or off. Don’t start the air conditioning if doors or windows are open.

Remove unnecessary items from the boot if you don’t need them in the car for your destination. Also remove any roof racks or roof boxes as these create drag and increase your fuel consumption.

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