Most Singapore driving lasts for no more than half an hour. Taking the car to Malaysia or Thailand places more stress on the car than usual under local conditions. The following checklist is to help you give your car a once-over before the big journey. Conversely, many mechanics will tell you that taking the car out for a long expressway ride is good for the car.
If you have driven to Malaysia recently, or if your car is fairly new, checking the belts and hoses should be adequate. But if this is your first trip up, and your car isn’t the omnipotent road-devouring beast it used to be, use the list.
If you are not mechanically inclined (this list is very thorough) tell your mechanic of your travel plans and book the car in for a service.

Under Bonnet Check

• Engine oil level
• Auto/manual transmission oil level
• Power steering fluid level
• Coolant/anti-freeze level
• Battery water level
• Wiper reservoir level
• Air filter
• V-belts condition

Fluid levels should be checked after the car has been standing for a long period. Do not check levels straight after or during use as you will get false readings – a popular trick of less scrupulous service station attendants.

Check for leaks

• Engine
• Cooling and heating hoses, pipes
• Brake master pump
• Power steering hoses
• Fuel filter
• Steering hydraulic system
• Transmission
• Brakes system
• Exhaust system

The easiest thing is to check the floor of the carspace you commonly use. Look for growing oil spots and fluid stains. Under the bonnet look for drip marks and oil stains on hoses, the engine block and lower bodywork.

Check for function

• Wiper blades
• Windscreen washers
• Lights
• Hazard lights
• Power windows
• Hand brake
• Instruments
• Anti-theft alarm
• Seat belts/seat adjuster
• Central door locks
• Sun visor

There is nothing worse than driving into a Malaysian Rainstorm discovering the wiperblades need replacing because they have hardened.

Check tyre condition

• Treadwear & Tyre pressure

Next: Eleven Rules for Driving

Back to Regional Travel