5 tips to avoid breakdowns in your car during your holidays

According to surveys, June and July are the months of the year when drivers visit the workshop the most. Preparing your car for the holidays is just as important as packing everything you need in your suitcase. A breakdown can cost you a lot of money, but above all it can spoil the enjoyment of your much-anticipated holidays. For this reason, in addition to these 5 tips to avoid unnecessary breakdowns, we recommend you keep these in mind:

1. Check the air conditioning or climate control system

It is important to carry out specific maintenance on the air conditioning during the summer months. In summer, this system works overtime, so we recommend a thorough inspection of belts, hoses and the dehydrating filter… a possible leak could cause the climate control to malfunction and turn your holiday into a real nightmare every time you get in the car.

2. Check the engine oil and filters

This is one of the most important precautions before setting off on a journey if you want to avoid serious scares. The oil is responsible for keeping the engine lubricated; without it we could end up burning out the engine, and obviously that would not be a cheap repair. If you have not done so yet, it is vital that before starting your holidays you change the oil and the air, oil and fuel filters.

3. Check the antifreeze level and the cooling system

Although you may think otherwise, the main job of the antifreeze coolant (which forms part of the car’s cooling system) is to prevent the engine from suffering excessive temperature rises, so checking its level before the holidays is just as important as locking up the house.

4. Check the brakes

A car’s braking system is made up of pads, discs and brake fluid. All of these components deserve rigorous maintenance. Brake pads usually cost between 50 and 70 euros, front discs (the ones that work hardest) between 100 and 150 euros, and the brake fluid (which should be replaced every two years) around 50 euros. Naturally these prices vary depending on the make and model of car, but it is still money invested in something very valuable: our safety.

5. Replace the windscreen wiper blades

Sudden changes in temperature negatively affect windscreen wiper blades, an item we will have to rely on at some point on long journeys… even in summer. Moreover, at this time of year it is very common to need them together with the washer system to clear away insects. It is advisable that they are in good condition. Their price varies between 5 and 15 euros.