Getting your car ready for a European road trip this summer

Written By Hayden Brown

Planning a family road trip to Europe is exciting, but making sure your car is ready can make all the difference for a safe, stress-free journey. At King Street Motor Services in West Malling, we help families from Kent and beyond prepare their vehicles for long drives every summer. Here’s what you should check before setting off:

Essential checks before your European adventure

  • Service and MOT: Make sure your car’s MOT is up to date and book a service if it’s due. A professional check can catch issues before they spoil your trip.

  • Tyres: Inspect for tread depth, damage, and correct pressure—including the spare. Continental roads and higher speeds can be tough on tyres.

  • Brakes and fluids: Check brake pads, discs, oil, coolant, and screenwash. Top up or replace as needed.

  • Lights and electrics: Test all bulbs, indicators, and wipers. Carry spare bulbs, as required in some European countries.

  • Travel kit: Many countries require high-vis vests, warning triangles, headlamp beam converters, and spare bulbs. Don’t forget your UK sticker!

Expert tip:
If you’re not sure about any of these checks, book in with us before you go. We can give your car a thorough once-over and help you avoid any holiday headaches.

FAQs:

  • What documents do I need for driving in Europe?
    You’ll need your driving licence, V5C logbook, insurance documents, and breakdown cover details.

  • Do I need a UK sticker and headlamp converters?
    Yes, a UK sticker is required for most European countries, and headlamp converters are a must for driving on the right.

  • Can I use my UK breakdown cover in Europe?
    Check your policy—some cover Europe as standard, others require an upgrade.

  • What should I do if my car breaks down abroad?
    Contact your breakdown provider and follow local laws for warning triangles and high-vis vests.

  • Are there any speed limit or toll differences to know about?
    Yes, speed limits and tolls vary by country. Research your route and keep some cash or a payment card handy for tolls.

  • Can you check my car even if it passed its MOT recently?
    Absolutely—an MOT checks roadworthiness, but a pre-holiday check is more thorough for long journeys.

Get your vehicle ‘road trip ready’!

For peace of mind before your family holiday, call us on 01732 843135 or email jjautoskentltd@gmail.com to book your pre-trip vehicle check.

Hayden Brown
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