July is the month for long trips to the seaside or the mountains. Before you set off, go through a few basic checks that will save you both stress and money.

Holiday driving means longer routes, full boots, and often a new car you bought specifically for trips like these. Before setting off, it's worth giving the car a bit of attention. A quick check at home could save you an unpleasant delay somewhere on a motorway in a neighbouring country.

Tyres and pressure

Before a longer trip, check the tread and pressure on all wheels, including the spare or puncture repair kit. A fully loaded car often needs higher pressure than the manufacturer specifies for normal driving – you'll find the figures for full load on a sticker inside the driver's door. Don't take chances with cracks in the sidewalls or uneven wear – sort them out before you set off.

Air conditioning and cooling

In the July heat, you'll appreciate working air conditioning far more than in winter. If it cools poorly or there's a strange smell, it could be low refrigerant or a dirty cabin filter. Also check the engine coolant level, since overheating in traffic queues at the border is one of the most common summer breakdowns.

Service book and oil

Check when the oil was last changed and whether the next service is coming up soon. A long trip full of motorway miles puts a different kind of strain on the engine than everyday city driving, and it's better to have servicing sorted beforehand than to deal with it on the road.

A holiday car from our current stock

If your current car isn't quite up to long trips with the family and all the luggage, take a look at the Škoda Kodiaq 2.0 TDI 4x4 L&K or the Superb 2.0 TDI 4x4 L&K – both offer space, power and the confidence of all-wheel drive. Another interesting option is the Volkswagen Passat 2.0 TDI 4MOTION, which combines a large boot with a smooth motorway ride.

Financing and peace of mind on the road

Every car in our range has been checked by Cebia and comes with a warranty, so you can set off on holiday without worrying about hidden faults. You can also buy your car on finance directly with us, and if something doesn't feel right after a few days, you can return it hassle-free within 7 days.