1. Check the oil level

To get your car ready for the holidays, it is important to check your oil level. The engine needs to be cold for this, and it also helps if the car is parked on level ground. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a cloth. Then insert it again until it is fully seated. Next, pull it out again so you can read the oil level. It is important that the oil level sits between MIN and MAX. Top up the oil if the level is below MAX. Curious which oil suits your car? Use our olieadviseur and receive tailored advice straight away.

Tip from Synmar: always bring a litre of spare oil with you on your trip.

2. Tyre pressure and tread depth

Checking your tyre pressure regularly (or having it checked) is important. With too low a pressure you have less grip on the road, you also use more fuel and the tyres wear out faster. You will find the correct tyre pressure in your car’s manual, and it is often also shown on a sticker on the door post. Check the pressure on cold tyres (less than 3km driven). If you have a spare tyre, check that one too right away, so you can continue driving immediately in case of a flat tyre.

A good tread depth provides sufficient grip on the road surface. It also ensures that water is drained away better, which reduces the risk of aquaplaning. For summer and all-season tyres the legally required minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm, but replacement is advised from 2 mm. For winter tyres this is 4 mm. Tread depth can be measured using the TWI (Tread Wear Indicator) or with a 1 euro coin. Place the coin between the grooves; if you can see the golden rim, your tyre needs replacing. Measure the tyres both in the middle and at the outer edge. This method is also possible with a different coin, check the internet for that.

3. Coolant

Your car’s cooling system cools the engine and prevents you from ending up stranded at the roadside with an overheated engine. On the coolant reservoir you can see the minimum and maximum levels it should contain. Only check this when the engine is cold, as the fluid can become very hot and pressurised. Here too it is important that the coolant level sits between MIN and MAX. Top up the coolant if the level is below MAX. Not sure which coolant you need? Enter hier your licence plate here and receive suitable advice straight away. View all our coolant products on our website.

4. Lights

Properly functioning lights are important not only for your own safety but also for that of other road users. Indicators are also important for making your intentions in traffic clear. So check these too before you set off. Turn on the ignition and check all settings: sidelights, dipped beam, high beam, indicators, fog lights and reverse light. Do not forget your number plate light. If you have no one to help you, park your car in front of a large reflective surface such as a shop window, so you can carry out the checks yourself.

Tip from Synmar: always make sure you have a set of spare bulbs in your car, in case a light fails along the way.

5. Wipers and washer fluid

To keep your car windows properly clean, it is important to check your wipers and washer fluid. If your wipers make a lot of noise or leave streaks, it is definitely worth checking them. First check whether they are dirty, as this can easily be fixed with a cleaning cloth. Is the rubber of your wipers porous, cracked or dry? Then they need replacing!

You will find the washer fluid reservoir under the bonnet, usually a blue cap with the washer fluid symbol on it. Make sure you have the correct reservoir and not the one for the coolant. Use our Summerwash ready to use, a washer fluid you can use with a funnel to top up your reservoir. This way you will have a great view of the beautiful scenery throughout your journey.

6. Travel advice per country

Before you go on holiday, check carefully which rules apply per country. For example, you need an environmental sticker for Germany, France, England, Spain and Sweden. For Austria, Switzerland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia you need a vignette. The maximum speed can also differ per country, and in Italy, for example, it is mandatory to carry a warning triangle and a safety vest. So check carefully what you need and what is mandatory per country!

With these 6 tips you will have a carefree holiday!