WITH summer holidays on the horizon automotive diagnostics specialist Carly has revealed the five most common issues affecting used cars that could cost more than the get-away itself.

The findings are designed to help drivers better understand their vehicles and identify potential problems before setting off on their summer road trips.

Families often spend hours planning routes, snacks and entertainment, as well as charging up their devices and packing their bags, but many don't spend any time at all understanding the car taking them on holiday.

With longer journeys, hotter weather, heavier loads and children on board, summer is often when previously minor issues can turn into expensive or trip-ending problems.

Any extended journey places extra demands on a vehicle, and hidden problems can quickly become serious issues when travelling long distances. With this in mind, Carly recommends ensuring the family car is in full working order in advance of heading off on a summer holiday.

Simple under-bonnet checks drivers can do include checking the levels of their car's oil, coolant, brake fluid, windscreen wash, power steering fluid and transmission fluid. Drivers should also check tyre pressures - ideally when the tyres are cold to avoid overinflation - and ensure the battery is in good condition (or decide whether preventive replacement may be needed). This will all help ensure any road trip begins safely and will reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

For drivers with a Carly diagnostics device, preparing a car for a summer holiday is quicker, easier and more comprehensive. Using the Carly app, a full diagnostic scan analyses the vehicle's key systems and can identify faults that may not be obvious during a visual inspection or even trigger a dashboard warning light.

Potential issues such as engine faults, 12-volt battery problems and sensor errors can often be detected while the car is still on the driveway, long before they have the chance to develop into more serious - and potentially trip-ending - problems. Many issues can be resolved before setting off, while more significant faults can be assessed by a professional mechanic, with support available directly through the Carly app.

If a fault code appears or a driver notices an unusual symptom, Carly's Repair Costs feature also helps take the guesswork out of repairs. Users can describe the issue within the app and instantly receive an estimated price range for parts and labour, whether the work is carried out by a franchised dealer or an independent garage. This helps drivers understand the likely urgency and cost of repairs before booking the vehicle in, reducing the risk of unexpected bills.

By using Carly to check for error codes, rogue warning lights and monitor the health of important vehicle systems, drivers can deal with most issues before they leave home and avoid unexpected and unwanted emergency repairs while away from home.

Checking a car prior to a long journey also reduces the risk of breakdowns and provides extra confidence for the whole family that the vehicle is in the best possible condition for the trip.

Carly UK growth manager Emma Brown said: "Summer holidays should be about making memories, not worrying about whether your car will make it to the destination. Carly gives drivers greater peace of mind by helping them identify potential issues before they become costly breakdowns. A quick health check of your vehicle can reveal hidden faults, battery problems, or maintenance needs, allowing drivers to address them in advance of setting off.

"By taking a proactive approach to car care and giving motorists greater confidence in the condition of their vehicle, Carly helps make summer journeys less stressful and ensures families can focus on enjoying their holiday rather than dealing with unexpected problems on the roadside."

Carly's diagnostic solution is a valuable tool for anyone planning a long summer journey. Combined with regular checks of tyres, fluids, brakes, and lights, it helps ensure that your car is fully prepared for the road. Taking these precautions allows drivers to enjoy their holidays with greater peace of mind and travel with confidence, knowing their vehicle is ready for the journey ahead.

Carly's recommended checks before setting off on a summer holiday: