If you’re planning a long drive in Scotland, then you’ll find few as spectacular and iconic as the North Coast 500. Let’s take a closer look at this incredible route and think about what you might do to get the best from your experience driving along it.
What is the North Coast 500?
The North Coast 500 is so-named thanks to its length: it’s just over five hundred miles long, wrapped around the northernmost Highlands of Scotland. Along the way, you’ll drive through a host of quaint little fishing villages, sweeping promontories, and wonderful little whisky distilleries.
If you’re the sort of person who enjoys driving for the sheer thrill of driving, then you may find the experience of the road itself just as compelling as the sights and sounds you’ll encounter along the way.
But the quality of your drive might be ruined if you suffer from vehicle problems enroute. Let’s think about what you might do to prevent that from happening.
Maintain your tyres
Your tyres are arguably the most important component of your car. They have a huge impact on the way that your vehicle handles, how safe it is, and how fun it is to drive. Getting replacement tyres fitted just before you make the trip can therefore be hugely beneficial. The adverse weather conditions and rocky terrain means you may want to opt for cheap Bridgestone tyres that will see you well through the journey.
Check Fluids
Your car relies on a whole range of fluids to stay in great condition. You’ll want to make sure that each is adequately topped up before you set out. This means your transmission fluid, your power-steering fluid, your brake fluid, your wiper fluid, and your engine oil.
Many of these are not easy for the average motorist to access, especially when you’re out on the road. It’s a good idea to entrust this task to your preferred mechanic before you set out. Of course, it never hurts to learn a little about how to perform some basic maintenance yourself, since you never know when disaster might strike in the middle of nowhere.
Carry out regular checks
There are a few things in your car that you’ll want to regularly check, not only before your trip but before it, too. In performing these checks, you’ll give yourself the best possible chance of avoiding trouble and keeping the ride as comfortable as possible. Check the air filters, the headlights, and the wiper fluid. Keep a supply of consumables and replacements just in case you need to make a change while you’re on the road. It doesn’t hurt to valet-clean the vehicle before you head out, either!
