Spring service before the journey in 15 minutes

Spring car maintenance does not have to mean spending the whole day at the garage. All you need is 15 minutes and good preparation to check the most important parts of your vehicle before your spring journey – regardless of whether you are planning a weekend away, a family holiday or a longer car trip. Changing weather conditions, post-winter dirt and a longer period of inactivity are all reasons to perform a basic service. The following pre-trip car checklist will help you organise everything efficiently and safely.

Preparing your car for spring driving – first, what’s under the bonnet

When preparing your car for a spring journey, start by checking the mechanical components that affect safety and smooth driving. Before a long journey, the following are crucial:

• engine oil – check the level and colour, preferably when the engine is cold,
• coolant – should be between min. and max., without any losses or deposits,
• brake fluid – too low a level may indicate brake pad wear or a leak in the system,
• windscreen washer fluid – be sure to use the summer version, which is suitable for warmer temperatures,
• Air filter – if it has not been replaced since autumn, it is worth cleaning or replacing it.

All these steps take just a few minutes and help you avoid unpleasant surprises on the road.

Checking your car before travelling – safety first

Before setting off on a journey, you should check all elements that affect road contact and visibility. After winter, tyres and windscreen wipers are particularly prone to wear and tear. Check the following:

• tyre pressure (preferably in accordance with the vehicle manual),
• tread – the minimum depth is 1.6 mm, but for comfort it is better to have more than 3 mm,
• lights – dipped headlights, main beam headlights, indicators, fog lights and brake lights,
• wiper performance – streaks and skipping are signs that the blades need to be replaced,
• braking system – if the brake pedal 'sinks' or you hear metallic noises, it is worth visiting a service centre.

If you decide to rent a car for a short or long term, you will not have to worry about this.

Spring car service – interior, boot and things worth having at hand

Although the interior may not directly affect safety, it is extremely important for travel comfort. Spring car servicing is also a good time to get rid of dust and debris left over from winter. Check your boot and make sure you have:

• warning triangle,
• reflective vest,
• a first aid kit with up-to-date equipment,
• a fire extinguisher with a valid expiry date,
• spare bulbs and fuses,
• USB cable / car charger,
• small change for car parks or road tolls.

If you are travelling with children, be prepared for a stop – bring water, snacks and basic hygiene products. For those using a hire car, it is a good idea to choose a package with additional equipment (e.g. a child seat).

Car checklist before departure – a ready-made plan for 15 minutes

You don’t need a whole day to make sure your car is ready for the road. Here is a quick pre-departure checklist for your car – you can do it yourself in 15 minutes:

Under the bonnet:

• engine oil level,
• coolant,
• brake fluid,
• windscreen washer fluid,
• air filter.

Safety:

• tyre pressure and condition,
• operation of all lights,
• wiper efficiency,
• brake pedal response.

Equipment:

• triangle, life jacket, first aid kit, fire extinguisher,
• car documents and civil liability insurance,
• charged phone, charger,
• small change for parking meters.

This is a universal list for both private drivers and people using short-term car hire – it requires no tools or specialist knowledge.

Summary – fast service means a smooth journey

A well-done spring car service is not just a technical formality, but a real chance to avoid problems on the road. A properly conducted car inspection before a trip allows you to set off with greater peace of mind – especially when you are planning a family trip, a trip to the mountains or a long May weekend. Regardless of whether you use your own vehicle or a rental car, the driver is always responsible for the condition of the car on the road. Fifteen minutes of attention is a small price to pay for safety and comfort on the road.

FAQ – spring car service and preparation before travelling

Does spring car servicing have to be done at a garage?

Not always – you can perform many basic checks yourself in 10–15 minutes. It is only worth visiting a workshop if faults are detected or when changing tyres seasonally.

Does long-term car hire include servicing?

Yes – this is one of the main advantages of this form of vehicle use. Servicing, insurance and assistance are included in the contract price.

What if I do not have a tyre pressure gauge?

Most petrol stations offer free compressors with pressure gauges – it is worth using them regularly.

When is the best time to perform a spring check-up on your car?

Two to three days before departure – so that you have time for any necessary adjustments or a visit to the service centre.