Holiday driving Archives | Maitland Motors

3 Quick Tyre Checks for a Safe Summer Road Trip

Chrissie Maitland — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 19:46:57 +0000

Tyre Checks you can do at home

As the school holidays creep closer and the good weather is here to stay (hopefully!), many of us are starting to plan family getaways, or day trips. But before you pile the kids and the bags into the car, there is one critical safety check you shouldn’t skip. Your tyres. Here are 3 Quick Tyre Checks for a Safe Summer Road Trip.

Your tyres are the only point of contact between your car and the road. When you’re driving at highway speeds with a fully loaded vehicle, a neglected tyre can quickly turn a happy road trip into a roadside breakdown.

To keep your family safe and your holiday on track, here are 3 Quick Tyre Checks for a Safe Summer Road Trip you can do right in your driveway.

What to look out for at home – 3 Quick Tyre Checks for a Safe Summer Road Trip

The 20p Tread Depth Test. In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. Driving with worn tyres drastically reduces your grip, especially if you hit a sudden summer downpour on the motorway. At Home, take a 20p coin and place it into the main tread grooves of your tyre. If the outer band of the coin is visible, your tyres are likely below the legal limit and need replacing immediately.
Check the Pressures (While Cold) Did you know that a car packed full of holiday luggage and passengers actually requires higher tyre pressure than your daily solo commute? Driving on under-inflated tyres causes them to overheat. Also, it increases your fuel consumption, and puts you at risk of a dangerous blowout. At Home, look up your car’s recommended tyre pressures. You can usually find this on a sticker inside the driver’s door frame or in your manual. Make sure to check them before you set off while the tyres are still cold. Don’t forget to check the spare tyre in the boot too!
Inspect for Hidden Damage. Give each tyre a quick visual inspection. Look closely at the sidewalls for any unusual bulges, cuts, or cracks. If you’ve scraped a kerb recently, it’s easy to damage the internal structure of the tyre without realising it. A bulge in the sidewall means the tyre is structurally compromised and could fail at any moment.

Need a Second Opinion? Maitland Motors has You Covered.

If you are unsure about the state of your tyres, don’t leave it to chance. Book your vehicle with Ross and the team at Maitland Motors. We offer a completely Free Vehicle Health Check where we’ll inspect your tyres, brakes, and fluid levels to give you total peace of mind before you hit the road. Plus, if there is any unexpected work is needed, we offer Payment Assist to help you spread the cost interest-free. So, you can enjoy your trip with one less thing to worry about.

The post 3 Quick Tyre Checks for a Safe Summer Road Trip appeared first on Maitland Motors.

5 Warning Signs Your Brakes Need Checking Before Summer Road Trips

Chrissie Maitland — Wed, 27 May 2026 17:50:30 +0000

Are your brakes Summer Road Trip Ready?

As the weather warms up and we start planning weekend getaways and summer road trips, the last thing you want is a mechanical issue cutting your journey short. While everyone remembers to check their fuel or oil, your braking system is your vehicle’s most critical safety feature.

Brake wear happens gradually, but your vehicle will usually give you warning signs when something is wrong.

5 things every driver should take note of:

 High-pitched Squealing or Squeaking: If you hear a sharp squeal when you press the brake pedal, it’s often a built-in acoustic indicator telling you the brake pads are wearing thin and need replacing.
A Grinding Noise: If you hear a harsh, metallic grinding, your pads have likely worn away completely. This noise is metal is rubbing against metal. This can quickly damage your brake discs and needs immediate attention.
Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal: If the pedal feels low or “mushy” when you press it down, it could point to air in the brake fluid lines or a potential fluid leak.
Pulling to One Side: Does your car try to steer itself to the left or right when you brake? This often indicates a stuck brake caliper or unevenly worn pads.
Vibrations or Shuddering: If your steering wheel or brake pedal vibrates when slowing down from speed, your brake discs might be warped from excessive heat.

Don’t take chances with your safety. If your car is experiencing any of these signs, book in with the team at Maitland Motors. As a PAGID/IMI PROFESSIONALLY ACCREDITED BRAKE SPECIALIST you can rest assured that your vehicle is in good hands. Our trained and “Proud to Fit” technicians fit your brake parts as recommended by leading experts in the field.

Click the book now button above to book your brake check with Maitland Motors today and ensure your brakes are summer road trip ready!

The post 5 Warning Signs Your Brakes Need Checking Before Summer Road Trips appeared first on Maitland Motors.

Top 5 Checks for Road Trips

Chrissie Maitland — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 20:04:40 +0000

Road Trip Ready With Maitland Motors

With the arrival of sunny weather, there’s no better time to get out, enjoy nature, and explore new locations. Before you hit the road, however, take a moment to ensure your vehicle is fully prepared for your adventures. Here are our top tips to help guarantee that the only elements affecting your journey are the weather conditions, not unforeseen vehicle issues.

1. Tyre Check:

Tread Depth: Measure the tread on each tyre. A minimum depth by law is 1.6 mm, but more tread is safer, especially in wet conditions. Consider using a tread depth gauge or the “penny test” for a quick check.
Inflation Pressure: Use a pressure gauge to check that all tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in the owner’s manual.
Condition: Inspect the sidewalls for any cracks, bulges, or punctures. If your tyres are showing signs of wear and tear or if it’s been over ten years since they were replaced, consider getting new tyres.

2. Fluids Check:

Engine Oil: Check the oil level using the dipstick. If it’s low, add the appropriate type of oil as specified in your owner’s manual. Consider scheduling an oil change if it’s been over 12 months/ 10,000 miles since your last oil change.
Coolant: Inspect the coolant reservoir and top it off with a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water if necessary to prevent overheating.
Brake Fluid: Make sure the brake fluid level is within the recommended range in the reservoir. If it’s low, have your brake system inspected.
Window Washer Fluid: Ensure you have added enough fluid to keep your windscreen clean.

3. Brake Check:

Feel and Sound: Test your brakes by pressing down on the pedal; they should feel responsive and firm. If they feel spongy or unresponsive, or if you notice any unusual noises like grinding or squealing, it’s crucial to have them inspected immediately to prevent potential safety hazards.

4. Light Check:

Functionality: Go around your vehicle to ensure all lights are working, including headlights, brake lights, indicator lights, and reverse lights.
Assistance: Enlist a friend or family member to assist you by watching the lights while you activate them, ensuring all are functioning properly. Replace any burnt-out bulbs as needed.

5. Air Conditioning Check:

Cooling Efficiency: Turn on your air conditioning and ensure that it blows cool, clean air. If it’s not cooling effectively, it could need servicing, recharge, or repair.
6. General Vehicle Checks:
Windows and Wipers: Inspect your windshield for cracks and ensure it’s clean. Check wiper blades for any wear or damage, replacing them if they leave streaks or miss spots.
Dashboard Warning Lights: Pay attention to any warning lights on the dashboard. If any lights are illuminated, consult your owner’s manual for guidance on potential issues that may need addressing.
Battery Condition: Check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure connections are tight. If it’s been more than three years since your last battery check, consider having it tested for health and capacity.
Service Records: Check when your vehicle was last serviced; regular maintenance can help ensure your vehicle is safe.

Essential Road Trip Kit

In addition to pre-trip vehicle checks, it’s wise to prepare an essentials kit to keep in your boot, especially if you’re travelling a considerable distance from home. Include the following items:

A well-stocked first aid kit for minor injuries.
Jump cables to assist with battery issues.
A jerry can in case of fuel emergencies.
A spare tyre or a tyre inflation kit for flat tires.
Emergency water and snacks to keep you hydrated and energised on long trips.
Blankets for warmth or comfort during unexpected delays.
A working torch for visibility during nighttime emergencies.
Spare change for tolls or unexpected stops.

If, during your vehicle checks, you discover anything concerning, it’s crucial to address the issue as soon as possible. Taking care of your vehicle now can prevent unexpected breakdowns or accidents. We offer a Free Vehicle Health Check where our trained technicians will conduct a thorough visual inspection of your vehicle and provide recommendations for any repairs needed, along with estimated costs. There is no obligation to proceed with repairs, but addressing minor issues early can save you from dealing with more significant, costlier problems down the line.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule your vehicle for a Free Vehicle Health Check and fully enjoy the sunny weather ahead, please get in touch. We’re here to help you stay safe and prepared for all your driving adventures.

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