Drivers’ Top 10 travel worries

Traffic congestion and breaking down are the biggest concerns for motorists as the summer getaway begins.

Worryingly, new research from car hire giant Europcar,  reveals that drivers of older cars undertake long journeys without doing some of the basic car maintenance checks.

With the average age of cars on Britain’s roads now over seven years, only 12% get their car serviced ahead of a big trip, while just one in five drivers of older cars are covered by roadside assistance

“Our research revealed that the top three car checks before a long journey are fuel (82%), tyres (65%) and windscreen wash (64%),” said Europcar’s Ken McCall.

“Interestingly checking the engine oil is topped up (63%) came lower than checking the windscreen wash – and checking the water coolant came even further down the list with only just over half (56%) of respondents saying they do this before embarking on a long journey.”

Europcar is highlighting the advantages of car hire as a safe, reliable and flexible alternative for families.

Top 10 Travel worries (Europcar survey respondents)

1. Traffic and congestion
2. Breaking down
3. Having an accident
4. Getting lost
5. Driving in bad weather
6. Driving when tired
7. Arriving on time
8. Keeping the kids occupied
9. Running out of fuel
10. Getting back pain

Top 10 Car Checks (Europcar survey respondents)

1. Top up the Fuel
2. Check Tyre Pressure
3. Check windscreen wash
4. Check oil
5. Top up water coolant
6. Check light bulbs
7. Check the car is safely loaded
8. Set Sat Nav for all the key locations
9. Make sure the car has been recently serviced
10. Check the air con and heating