You can feel it in the air, right across Penrith and the Blue Mountains. The days are getting longer, the footy season is wrapping up and conversations are turning to plans for the long weekends and school holidays ahead.

But before you pack your car and hit the M4, there’s one family member whose health is super important for a smooth trip: your vehicle.

Leaving the technical details to a professional car service company, your favourite Penrith mechanic, is the most surefire way to make your trip memorable for all the right reasons.

Your Pre-Trip Checklist

A quick weekend escape shouldn’t be derailed by a preventable issue. Before you head off:

• Check beyond the dipstick. Your car has several vital fluids. Check your engine oil, of course, but also your coolant (to prevent overheating on long climbs) and brake fluid. Brake fluid is hygroscopic and it might have absorbed moisture and need replacing. Don’t forget the windscreen wash for clearing away road grime and bugs.
• Look at more than just air pressure. Check your tyre pressure when the tyres are cold for an accurate reading and don’t forget the spare. Generally speaking, the recommended pressure is often higher for a fully loaded car; check the placard on the driver’s door jamb for the correct ‘laden’ PSI. Also, inspect the tread for uneven wear, which could signal an alignment issue.
• Get your lights and wipers ready for action. Test all your lights: headlights, high beams, brake lights, number plate light and indicators. Clean the headlight lenses to remove road film, which can significantly dim their brightness on a dark country road. Check the rubber on your wiper blades for any cracks or perishing.

The lead-up to any holiday is the busiest time for workshops. We recommend that you book your pre-trip check a few weeks in advance to secure your spot.

A Word on Your Furry Co-Pilots

For many of us, a family adventure isn’t complete without our pets. Their safety and comfort are just as important as everyone else’s.

• Make sure they’re safely secured. A proper, crash-tested seatbelt harness for a dog or a secure, well-ventilated carrier for a cat is a must. It keeps them safe and stops them from becoming a distraction. For smaller pets like birds or rabbits, their travel cage should be placed on a flat, stable surface away from direct sunlight and draughts.
• Keep water on the go. Keep a bottle of water and a bowl handy. They get thirsty too, especially when they’re excited.
• Here is an insider tip for different pets. Vets advise against letting your dog hang its head out the window, as flying debris can cause serious eye injuries.

For cats, covering their carrier with a light, breathable blanket can help them feel more secure and reduce travel stress.

• Remember the golden rule. Never leave any pet in a parked car. Even on a mild spring day, the temperature inside a car can become dangerous in a matter of minutes.

  At Angus Car Service, we’re a family-run business that has been helping Penrith families stay safe on the roads for over 35 years. Because we believe in giving back, every service with us helps plant a tree and provides five days of education to a child in need.

  We don’t just service cars; we look after the people who drive them… (You know, the busy mums, the seasoned road trippers, the newlyweds on their first vacay and everyone in between.)

  So, before you head off, let our award-winning team give your car a thorough check-up.

Winter brings more than just chilly mornings; it also means more precipitation, which can significantly impact your visibility. It’s crucial to ensure your wiper blades are in top condition to handle rain, snow and sleet (especially in our upper mountains region.) Wiper blades wear out over time, and you might not notice the gradual decline in their performance until you’re driving in a storm and then, uh oh!

Look for signs of splits, cracks or streaking, as these can impair your ability to see clearly. If your wipers leave streaks or make noise when in use, it’s likely time for a replacement.

Don’t forget your windscreen washer fluid! Running low on washer fluid can leave you stranded with a dirty windscreen, especially after a windy night and when road grime builds up quickly. A well-maintained wiper system not only keeps you safe but also improves your overall driving experience during the colder months. Be sure to top up your fluid regularly, especially in winter, when visibility is crucial for safe driving.

Keeping your wipers in top condition ensures clear visibility in rainy or blizzard conditions in the higher altitudes. It’s also equally important to check your vehicle’s lighting to stay seen and safe on the road as the days get shorter.

Light Up Those Darker Days

While the days are shorter, your headlights and taillights become your lifeline on the road. A regular check of your lights can ensure you’re visible to other drivers, especially during foggy or rainy conditions. But it’s not just about turning them on. It’s important to clean the lenses and check for any dimming, which can signal the need for a bulb replacement.

Also, don’t forget your brake lights and indicators. In low visibility, you need to ensure that other drivers can see your intentions clearly. A 30-second check could prevent a costly accident this winter.

Winter Safety at Angus Car Service

Our Angus A-Team believes that winter driving safety goes beyond just the basics. We understand the importance of your car’s performance during the colder months, so we make it our priority to offer comprehensive maintenance checks. Besides checking your wipers and lights, it’s also a good idea to ensure your tyres are properly inflated, battery is in good condition and fluid levels are topped up, amongst other things.

With over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, Aaron and our team are always here to guide you through the proper maintenance your vehicle needs this winter.

Don’t wait until something breaks. Book your winter safety check today and drive with confidence!