DIY

10 simple car maintenance tips before a road trip

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road - windows down, tunes up, and the promise of adventure ahead. But before you load the boot and the kids (not into the boot), it’s worth giving your car a bit of TLC. A few simple checks, followed by some maintenance tasks, can save you from breakdowns (cars and relationships!), blowouts, or costly repairs while you’re many k’s from home.

RYOBI TEAM Wed, 05/13/2026 - 12:40

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The good news? You don’t need to be a mechanic or have a garage full of gear. With a few RYOBI tools and a bit of DIY elbow grease, you can get your car road-trip ready in no time.

Here are 10 easy maintenance tips to tick off before you hit the highway.

1. Give your car a proper wash

Start with a clean slate. A thorough wash not only makes your car look schmick, but it also helps you spot any loose items, like mudflaps, number plates and trim. You may even spot some damage like windscreen chips, rust, or leaks and get them fixed before they get worse.

Use: RYOBI Pressure Washer
These high-powered units make quick work of dirt, bugs and road grime. Rinse from top to bottom and finish with a chamois for a streak-free shine.

All Pressure Washers

2. Check and clean your battery terminals

A flat battery is the last thing you want in the middle of nowhere. A common cause of a flat battery is a poor connection so check for corrosion around the terminals, and ensure the battery is mounted securely. A loose battery can cause damage to the car’s bonnet or other engine parts if it shakes loose.

Use: RYOBI 18V ONE+ Compact Power Scrubber
With the soft-bristle brush attachment, you can safely clean corrosion from battery terminals. Just disconnect the battery first, scrub gently with a baking soda solution, and rinse with water. Be sure to dry thoroughly before reconnecting.

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3. Inspect tyres and check pressure

Tyres need to be in top nick all year-round. Balding tyres affect braking, cornering and may puncture more easily. Look for uneven wear, cracks, or bulges, and definitely check the tread depth. Poor wheel alignment can cause premature tyre wear and affect steering. Incorrect tyre pressure – either too high or too low – is often a major cause of tyre wear. Low tyre pressure can even increase fuel consumption by creating more drag (rolling resistance). The recommended tyre pressures for your vehicle usually can be found on the manufacturer’s plate located on the car body near the driver’s door lock. Or check your vehicle’s operating manual. Don’t forget the spare wheel!

Use: RYOBI 18V ONE+ Multifunction Inflator
This compact inflator lets you set your desired PSI and automatically stops when it’s reached. It’s perfect for topping up all four tyres (and even your spare) before a long drive.

Tip: Check your tyre pressure when the tyres are cold for the most accurate reading.

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4. Test your lights

From headlights to brake lights to indicators, make sure every bulb is working. Not only is it safer, but it’ll also keep you on the right side of the law. PS: This is quicker when you have a spotter telling you if the lights are working.

Use: RYOBI 18V ONE+ Hybrid Worklight
This portable light helps you inspect your car in low-light conditions or shaded areas. It’s especially handy for checking under the bonnet or inspecting tail lights in the garage.

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18V ONE+ Hand Vacuum with Powered Brush Bar - Tool Only

5. Clean the interior

A clean cabin makes for a more comfortable trip - especially if you’re spending hours on the road. Clear rubbish out of drink holders, consoles and other nooks and crannies (check under the seats), wipe down surfaces, then vacuum thoroughly.

Use: RYOBI 18V ONE+ Hand Vacuum with Powered Brush Bar
This cordless vac with its powered brush bar effectively loosens and lifts sand, dirt, food crumbs and lolly wrappers from carpet, floor mats and seats. It also has a crevice tool for those really tight spaces between seats and in the boot.

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6. Clean windscreens, windows and mirrors

Visibility is key when you’re driving long distances. Dirty glass can cause glare and reduce your ability to see hazards.

Use: RYOBI ONE+ Window Vac
This tool vacuums up dirty water as you clean, leaving your windows streak-free. Pair it with a quality glass cleaner and microfibre cloth for best results.

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7. Top up fluids

Check and top up essential fluids: engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, windscreen washer, and transmission fluid. If anything looks low or dirty, it might be time for a change.

Use: RYOBI USB Lithium Inspection Light
This flexible light helps you see into tight engine bay spaces, making it easier to check fluid levels and spot leaks.

Tip: Always check fluids when the engine is cool and the car is on level ground.

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8. Tighten loose nuts, bolts and screws

Rattles and vibrations can be signs of loose components. A quick check under the bonnet and around the car (especially wheel nuts) can prevent parts from coming loose on the road.

Use: RYOBI ONE+ 18V Cordless Ratchet Wrench
This tool makes tightening bolts a breeze - especially in hard-to-reach spots. Use it to check everywhere from under the bonnet to under the vehicle.

All Ratchet Wrenches

9. Organise your boot

A cluttered boot can be a hazard in an emergency. Make sure your jack, jumper leads, and first-aid kit are all secured, accessible and in good condition.

Use: RYOBI ONE+ Compact Blower
Blow out dust and debris from the boot and under seats. It’s also handy for drying off mats or blowing away leaves before packing up.

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10. Check wiper blades and washer fluid

You never know when you’ll hit rain or bugs on the windscreen. Make sure your wipers are in good condition and your washer jets are spraying properly. Use washer fluid to get a better clean than simply water alone.

18V ONE+ HP™ 600psi EZClean Power Washer – Tool Only

Use: RYOBI ONE+ Power Washer
This portable washer is perfect for cleaning windscreen wiper blades and clearing blocked washer jets. It’s also great for a quick rinse if you’re on the go.

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Final thoughts: Drive safe, drive smart

A little maintenance goes a long way, especially before a big trip. With RYOBI’s range of cordless tools, you can handle most car care tasks from your own driveway. Not only will your car look and feel better, but you’ll also drive with peace of mind knowing you’ve done your bit to stay safe on the road.