• 06/26/2019

Peace of mind for a safe vacation trip

Ten tips for stress-free holiday driving
The car is the Germans’ favorite means of transportation: 18.1 million people went on vacation in a passenger car in 2017. It’s important to check everything before setting off on holiday so as to ensure the trip doesn’t end in the breakdown lane. These ten tips will help you prevent unwanted stops and expensive repairs:

Check the oil level

If the indicator goes on, you’ve left it too late. The best idea is to take a look at our Oil Guide beforehand so as to be sure to find exactly the right oil. Remember to stock up on oil before you go away as this will cut your costs: after all, oil purchased en route will often be a lot more expensive.

Vitamins for engines

Holiday driving often involves long distances, so a reliable engine is a must. Additives can help improve running properties and are the best way to prevent a breakdown. Injection Cleaner (for petrol engines) or Super Diesel Additive (for diesel engines) are well-suited products here.

Check the cooling water

The cylinder head gasket can easily burn in hot weather if there’s a lack of coolant. If you require more, simply fill up with our Coolant Ready Mix. And to be sure the radiator doesn’t leak, add our Radiator Stop-Leak.

Check the windscreen wiper water level

Our Windshield Cleaner ensures perfect visibility at all times – but be sure not to confuse the wiper water container with the coolant reservoir.

Check the air conditioning system

Long drives require a lot of concentration on the part of the driver, but high temperatures reduce concentration capacity. This is why a functioning air conditioning system is so important. Only by ensuring a clean air conditioning system will you create a pleasant climate and prevent the spread of germs. Our Climate Fresh is effective when it comes to eliminating unpleasant smells. And garages are able to clean your system professionally using LIQUI MOLY equipment.

Check the brakes

If there’s a lack of brake fluid, this might be the result of wear and tear on the brake pads. Be sure to have a garage look for any problems and carry out repairs as necessary. You’ll find the right brake fluid in our oil guide.

Check the tire pressure

Be absolutely sure to check this before leaving, and remember that manufacturer specifications refer to cold tires – if you’ve been driving fast the figure can be much higher. Tires with less than three millimeters of remaining tread should be replaced before the trip.

In the event of a breakdown

Be sure to check the expiry date of your first aid kit. In the trunk you should have a warning triangle and a safety vest as well as at least one tire repair kit. It's better still to have a spare wheel or at least an emergency wheel on board: in the event of large splits and holes in the tire, a repair set will be of little use.

Check the lights

Switch all the lights on and off to check they work, including the indicator lights and brake light. It’s a good idea to carry replacement fuses and bulbs with you.

Check the inspection date

If the next service is due while you’re away on holiday, the best thing is to bring it forward.

Refill Oil

Our 5W-30 Refill Oil in the handy 1 l container is ideal for taking along on holiday trips when you’re traveling by car. If the oil indicator does happen to light up, an all-year-round oil for petrol and diesel engines including common rail and unit injector technology is the perfect companion. What is more, it exceeds the most rigorous test requirements imposed by well-known vehicle manufacturers. Be sure to have it on board!