Key Takeaways:
- Demand for pre-trip maintenance in Umuarama rises by up to 30% as families prepare for the holidays; follow a clear car checklist before travelling.
- Inspect brakes, suspension and tyres first – worn pads, damaged tyres or incorrect pressure increase accident risk and aquaplaning.
- Check motor oil, filters, cooling system, belts and battery to avoid breakdowns on long trips; carry a service kit and spare parts.
- Plan the route, schedule rest stops, use seat belts and child restraints, and never drive tired or under the influence.
With Christmas and New Year approaching, motorists in Umuarama, Brazil, are seeking preventive maintenance ahead of busy holiday travel. Ivanildo Coutinho, a director at one of the city’s largest dealerships, says demand for vehicle inspections can rise by as much as 30 per cent at this time of year. He advises drivers to arrange checks well in advance because workshops often cannot accommodate last-minute requests.
Reporters spoke to two workshop technicians to identify the most critical items to inspect before a long journey. They stress that service prevents breakdowns and directly enhances safety for occupants on highways and secondary roads.
Car checklist before travelling
Mechanic Gustavo Evaristo highlights structural systems that affect a car’s stability and stopping power. Brake pads and discs should be checked for wear, and brake fluid level and condition must be verified. Faulty or worn suspension components, such as tired shock absorbers and loosened bushes or ball joints, reduce control in emergency manoeuvres and in wet conditions. Drivers should watch for unusual noises, vibrations or a feeling of instability at speed; any such symptoms warrant an immediate visit to a workshop.
Tyres demand special attention. Tyres with shallow tread raise the risk of aquaplaning and lengthen braking distance. Ensure correct tyre pressure according to the manufacturer’s recommendation, inspect for cuts or bulges, and check the spare tyre. Confirm that a jack and wheel wrench are present and serviceable.
On the mechanical side, Mateus Terra emphasises engine health and consumables. Check motor oil level and service interval; low or expired oil can cause serious engine damage. Replace oil and fuel filters when required and inspect the air filter for cleanliness to preserve fuel economy and power. The cooling system should be topped up and free of leaks; overheating is a common cause of roadside breakdowns on long runs.
Also inspect drive belts, hoses and the battery. Belts can crack and snap with age, and a weak battery or corroded terminals can leave a vehicle stranded. A routine visual check can identify many avoidable faults.
Plan the trip and drive responsibly
Beyond mechanical checks, authorities remind drivers that human behaviour is central to safety. The Military Highway Police recommends obeying speed limits, keeping a safe following distance and avoiding risky overtaking. Do not drive when sleepy or after drinking alcohol. Ensure every occupant uses a seat belt and that children travel in appropriate child seats or booster cushions.
Effective planning also reduces stress on the road. Map routes and rest stops in advance, allow time for breaks and hydration, carry a charged mobile phone and a vehicle charger, and bring water and light snacks. Keep important documents to hand, including a valid driving licence and the vehicle registration, and have emergency numbers and any roadside assistance contacts readily available.
With higher traffic volumes over the holidays, a combination of preventive maintenance and cautious driving offers the best chance of arriving safely. Investing time in a thorough pre-trip inspection means families are more likely to remember the season for good moments rather than a breakdown on the roadside.
