Brisbane is perfectly positioned as the gateway to some of Queensland’s most spectacular
holiday destinations. As local mechanics with workshops scattered across the city, the
team at Ultimate Auto Care loves seeing our customers gear up for adventure. Whether
you’re heading north to the tropics or south to the border ranges, a Queensland road trip
offers freedom and unforgettable memories.
However, the key to a great trip is a great start and that means ensuring your car is up to
the challenge. Before you pack the esky and hit the Bruce Highway, we stress the
importance of a Pre-Holiday Safety Check.

The Sunshine Coast Getaway
The classic Brisbane road trip – head north for about 90 minutes and you’re in paradise.
The Sunshine Coast offers everything from the buzzing beaches of Mooloolaba to the
tranquility of the hinterland around Maleny and Montville.
The Drive: Mostly straightforward highway driving, but you’ll encounter traffic on the
Gateway Motorway, Bruce Highway and around Caloundra/Maroochydore sections.
The Challenge: Stop-start traffic and the possibility of heavy holiday congestion
mean your brakes and cooling system will be working hard. The change in gradient
as you climb into the hinterland also tests your engine performance.

The Gold Coast Escape

South of Brisbane lies the Gold Coast, famous for its theme parks, surf beaches, and the
lush Tallebudgera Valley. It’s a short, fast drive that demands sharp focus.
The Drive: A mix of motorways and rapid changes in speed limits. The drive into
the hinterland involves tight, winding roads.
The Challenge: High-speed freeway travel followed by intensive manoeuvring in
suburbs and hill climbs. This quickly exposes flaws in your steering, suspension,
and tyre pressure.

North to the Bundaberg and Fraser Coast Adventure
For a longer journey, heading toward Bundaberg (around 5 hours north) gives you access
to stunning areas like Mon Repos (turtles!), and the ferry connection to K’gari (Fraser
Island).
The Drive: Long, sustained periods of highway driving at 100-110 km/h.
The Challenge: This is where the long-haul stresses your engine and transmission.
You need clean fluids, a fully functioning cooling system, and tyres that can handle
hundreds of kilometres of sustained friction and heat.

Before You Go: The Pre-Holiday Safety Check
A breakdown is the fastest way to ruin a holiday. Our Pre-Holiday Safety Check is a
comprehensive inspection designed to catch small issues before they become expensive
catastrophes far from home.

What We Check for Your Peace of Mind:
Fluids and Filtration: We check all essential fluids (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid,
transmission fluid) for level and contamination. A healthy cooling system is critical
for Queensland heat!
Brakes: We inspect brake pads, rotors, and fluid condition. Heavy holiday traffic
and fully loaded vehicles demand reliable stopping power.
Tyres: We check tread depth, look for uneven wear (a sign of misalignment), and
ensure pressures are set correctly – crucial for fuel efficiency and safety. Don't
forget to check the spare tyre!
Battery and Electricals: Long road trips rely on your battery for more than just
starting. We test the battery charge and alternator performance, ensuring your
lights, wipers, and charging ports work perfectly.
Belts and Hoses: We inspect all belts for cracking and tension, and check hoses
for signs of swelling or perishing. A snapped serpentine belt or burst radiator hose
will definitely stop your trip in its tracks.

Don’t let mechanical worries overshadow your Queensland adventure. Whether you’re
chasing waves on the Gold Coast or admiring turtles near Bundaberg, a quick safety check at one of our Ultimate Auto Care workshops across Brisbane will ensure your trip
is smooth sailing.

Planning your next Queensland escape?
Contact your nearest Ultimate Auto Care workshop across Brisbane today and book
your vehicle in for its essential Pre-Holiday Safety Check!

Speak to the Experts – There’s an Ultimate Auto Care Near You
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