7 Tips To Prepare Your Car For A Road Trip
How to get your car ready for your next road trip
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You are probably thinking it’s getting to be close to winter time, and I need to get my car ready for a safe road trip. So, while you plan for yourself to escape the city chaos and head to open roads, the mountains, beaches, etc. we provide you with 7 car checkup suggestions to help you get your car ready for a comfortable and safe road trip.
1. Check all the fluids under the hood
Next, check the coolant level in the reservoir. Make sure you do this when the engine is completely cold before you take the radiator cap off. If you can see the fluid right up to the top you’ve got nothing to worry about. If not, make sure you refill with the approved coolant. Always check your owner’s manual before you make any selection.
Automatic transmission fluid
To check the automatic transmission fluid you might have to keep the engine running and it needs to be on a level surface. One more important thing about checking automatic transmission fluid is that you get the most accurate reading when your engine is hot. Similar to the engine oil, you will have a dipstick to check the transmission fluid. However, some cars do not have a dipstick. If your car doesn’t have it then you can have your transmission level checked at a local car service shop. The fluid level has to reach the full mark on the dipstick. Also, check the color of the fluid. It has to be pinkish. If it is not clear and smells burnt, or you find particles present in it then get the fluid changed by a car mechanic.
Brake fluid level
Your brake fluid level normally drops as your brake pads wear out. if it drops below the minimal indication add the fluid and also get your brakes checked.
Washer fluid
One of the most unpleasant things when on a long drive is realising you have run out of the washer fluid and your windows are all sticky and you have nothing to clean them with. So, make sure the window washer bottle is filled with fluid.
Power steering fluid
If your car uses a hydraulic power steering system, make sure the power steering fluid is topped up too.
2. Brakes pads
Brake pads are an important safety system of your vehicle. The brake pad is visible through the wheel holes on a lot of cars. It’s necessary to check the thickness of the brake pad to assess its life. You might need a torch to get a good look at the brake pad. If the pads appear too thin, less than 1/4", it might be time to get the brake pads replaced.
3. Lights and indicators
Check all the lights and indicators around the car just to make sure they are all in the working order before you leave. Check your headlights, tail lights, high beams, right turn signal, left turn signal, brake indicators and reverse indicators.
4. Check your tyres
The most important thing is always make sure you check your tyres because that’s where you get your traction from. Begin with checking the tyre pressure. To find the recommended tyre pressure check the owner’s manual or check the sticker on the driver’s door. This is extremely important for your safety, for better fuel economy and your tyre’s overall health. You may do a visual inspection yourself to check for potential damages if any however, it’s best to visit a tyre specialist for a thorough inspection and get the issues addressed.
5. Check windshield wiper
Another important thing worth checking is the condition of your wiper blades. If you notice that they don’t seem to be clearing the window very well then, it’s probably time to replace them. You can also check if they are ripped or torn. You may also try to clean the wiper blades yourself. The easiest thing to do is just take a little bit of glass cleaner on a clean sheet or rag and clean the wiper blades. Cleaning them at times help them to perform better. And don’t forget your rear wiper blades.
6. Check spare tyres and tools
Before you load up your car with goodies while heading out just make sure that your jack and tool kit is kept safe in the storage area. These are a road trip must haves because they come in handy for you to do minor repairs and patch ups if required. Another thing to check is the spare tyre. It’s important to check the tyre pressure on it. Because in an unforeseen situation if you end up with a flat tyre you might have to use the spare.
7. Don’t forget paperwork
And finally, before any road trip just make sure you have all your vehicle documents neatly kept in your glove compartment.