What Should I Check Before a Long-Distance Trip?
Published 4 October 2026
A pre-trip inspection is most useful when it is done early enough to repair anything important before departure. Tyres, brakes, fluids, battery condition and recent warning signs deserve particular attention.
Symptoms can have more than one cause. RMS Bosch focuses on testing and inspection before significant repair work is recommended.
Tyres and braking
Check tyre condition, pressure and obvious uneven wear. New brake noise, vibration or a change in stopping performance should be inspected before a long journey.
Fluids and cooling system
Coolant, engine oil and visible leaks should be checked, particularly before extended highway driving or hot-weather travel.
Battery, lights and starting
Slow starting, a weak battery or a charging warning light should be investigated before the trip rather than relying on a roadside jump-start.
Do not ignore new symptoms
A recent warning light, vibration, clunk, overheating event or loss of power is a reason to diagnose the vehicle before adding long-distance load.
Need the Cause Confirmed?
Use the related RMS service page to choose the most relevant workshop in Durban, Umhlanga, Ballito, Richards Bay, Stanger or elsewhere in the RMS KZN network.