Trusted Garage Network

Advice

Seasonal checklists

Quick checks to keep your car safe and reliable all year.

Seasonal campaigns from member garages

Summer road trip checklist

Checks to make before a long summer journey.

Long journeys in hot weather put extra strain on your car.

Before you go

  • Air con: if it smells or blows warm, it may need a regas.
  • Tyres: check pressures for a fully loaded car, including the spare.
  • Coolant and oil levels.
  • Wipers: summer bugs and dust need good blades.
  • Driving abroad: UK sticker, headlamp beam adjusters and the right documents.

Book a pre-holiday check with a member garage a week or two before you travel.

Winter car checklist

Get your car ready for cold, dark and wet months.

Cold weather finds weak spots in a car.

Before the first frost

  • Battery: batteries over 4 years old often fail in the cold. Get it tested.
  • Tyres: aim for 3 mm of tread and check pressures monthly.
  • Antifreeze: check the coolant strength.
  • Lights: clean and check every bulb.
  • Wipers and screen wash: use a winter screen wash rated to at least minus 10.
  • Emergency kit: scraper, de-icer, torch, blanket, phone charger.

Many member garages run free winter checks in the autumn. Look for winter offers near you.