Vehicle safety tips for Brazilian holiday travelers

As the Brazilian Independence Day holiday approaches on September 7, experts are advising motorists to prepare for more than just mechanical maintenance before traveling. While checking tires, oil, and brakes is standard, knowing how to handle specific vehicle features is equally critical to avoiding delays.

Marcelo Rocha, post-sales director at Grupo Servopa, notes that many drivers only seek information about their vehicle's specific features when an emergency occurs. One key area of concern is vehicles with keyless entry systems. If a key fob battery dies, drivers should know the emergency procedures to manually unlock the doors and start the engine, which often involves using a hidden mechanical key.

Other essential preparations include locating the vehicle's tow point and ensuring the ability to navigate routes without cellular signal. These precautions are particularly relevant for travelers in Curitiba, where an additional local holiday on September 8 is expected to increase road traffic.