SUMMERTIME HOLIDAY DRIVING BLUES - CURES

Follow These Tips And Your Summer Driving Holiday Just Can't Go Wrong.
Holiday car trips that start out as the great escape from everyday hassles could turn into another big headache for unwary drivers. So here's some advice and solutions for 10 of the most common summertime blues.

1 Life's a beach - security-conscious drivers take their electronic key fobs for a swim, drown them in salty sea water and can't get back into their cars.
Solutions: If possible, take turns when swimming and leave the key fob safe and secure on dry land. Read the car manual and memorise the alternative method for entering the car, usually a specific series of turns of the key. Never put the master key on your key ring. If it is lost or damaged, it means replacing the car's security system, which could cost up to £1500.

2 Fast-lane blow-outs - cars loaded with people and luggage doing big mileages on fast roads are at most risk from catastrophic tyre failure.



Solutions: Check all tyres, on caravans and trailers as well as cars, as high summer temperatures heat up tyres and may aggravate any damage, such as cracks, splits, worn tread and bulges. Check tyre pressures regularly. The need to top up one tyre more often than others could indicate a slow puncture. Consider what you might do if you have a puncture while driving and keep both hands on the steering wheel in case a blow-out occurs.



3 Car rental regrets - hidden charges, unroadworthy cars and unexpected damage costs can leave a lingering and unpleasant holiday memory.



Solutions: Take time to choose your car hirer, checking out the total package of hire costs, insurances (collision damage waiver, theft protection and third party liability) and hire conditions. Internet sites are ideal for research. Check over the car's bodywork, fluid levels, tyres and general condition when you pick it up and when you return it; if you have a camcorder, film the outside before leaving it. Remember...