How to avoid breaking down on the way back from holiday

After a well deserved, relaxing holiday, the last thing you need is a stressful car drive back. As a leading provider of roadside assistance, Mondial Assistance is recommending that motorists take a few precautions before they set off, to ensure their vehicle is ready for the drive home and minimise the risk of a breakdown.

“It’s all too easy to think that the holiday ends when you jump in the car and set off home.  However, it’s never really over until you have arrived home safely.   It’s important to properly prepare for the journey with just the same vigour you would have done before heading off for your summer holiday. However many don’t, which is why some holidaymakers come a cropper half-way home,” says Lee Taylor, Automotive Sales Director at Mondial Assistance in the UK.

“Think of all those souvenirs and holiday purchases adding extra weight to the vehicle.  Check and if appropriate adjust tyre pressures to ensure you are driving safely. In addition, the car may have done many miles during a family holiday, in terms of day trips and excursions. With this in mind, drivers should take a few minutes to do some simple checks, such as water and oil levels, to potentially avoid the dreaded roadside assistance call.

“We recommend people check that they have breakdown cover before they start their holiday, offering them quality assistance when they need it most. The important point to remember is have the phone number of the roadside assistance provider should any motoring difficulties arise. People can reduce the risk of a breakdown with our homeward bound driving check list.”

Mondial’s homeward bound driving check list

Check the battery the night before, if you haven’t used the car during your holiday

Check the lights are still working

Check oil and water levels

If you’re travelling with a heavier load, adjust tyre pressures according to the handbook

Make sure bike racks, tow bars and roof racks are attached securely

Pack the car well, ensuring stuff won’t slide around

Avoid packing above the line of the seat backs to maintain a clear view to the rear

Leave easy access to your spare tyre, just in case you get a puncture.

Don’t pack the kids in too tightly; otherwise it will be an uncomfortable and unhappy journey, not only for them, but for you too!