Going on a road trip is an exciting experience, whether you`re going solo or with your loved ones. And it`s especially fun if you`re going to a place you`ve never visited before. Getting car trouble in the middle of a long drive, on the other hand, is nothing short of frustrating. Aside from taking a bit of fun out of your adventure, it can also cost you a lot of time and money. To prevent this from happening, you should perform a few crucial car maintenance checks before you travel. Do these at least one or two weeks prior, so that you have time to make necessary repairs and replacements. That said, here are some of the most important things you should do to prepare your vehicle to be road trip ready:
Inspect the Battery and Spark Plugs
It`s already quite a big hassle if your car`s battery dies on you in the city; but what if it happens in the middle of nowhere? You could be stranded for hours before help arrives. Save yourself from a heap of inconvenience by inspecting the battery before you leave for your road trip.
The most important thing to check is the battery connection. Make sure that the cables are secured properly and the terminals are free from corrosion. If the battery is older than two years, bring your car to your trusted mechanic and have them check for leaks. If there are any leaks, have the battery replaced ASAP; since you can`t be sure how long a repaired battery will last.
While you`re at it, you should also take a look at the spark plugs. Like the battery, the spark plug connection terminals should also be corrosion-free. Check the body to see if there are any tracks. If there aren`t any visible damages, turn on your car and check for signs like hard starts, engine misfires, or rough idling.
If your spark plugs are in bad shape, replace them immediately. Fortunately, you can find spark plugs in almost every auto parts store. For Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep owners, check this shop for essential components.
Check Your Tyres
You can`t travel very far if your car`s tyres aren`t in great shape. You`re lucky if you only get a flat along the way (which is why you need to learn how to change a tyre, just in case). The worst case is getting a blowout or losing traction when it rains.
One of the most important things to do when checking the condition of your tyres is to inspect the treads. If they`re worn down, you need to replace them ASAP. Fortunately, most tyres now have built-in tread depth indicators so you don`t have to make any guesses.
You should also inspect if the tyre treads are wearing down at the same rate. If they`re uneven, you might have issues with alignment. Have your vehicle balanced or the tyres rotated for a smooth journey.
Next, you need to inspect the tyre pressure. The manufacturer`s recommended psi is indicated in the owner`s manual and on the inside of the driver`s door jamb. Get an air pressure gauge and perform a test when the tyres are cool to get the most accurate measurement.
Lastly, you`ll also need to pack a spare tyre, along with a jack and tyre wrench for changing tyres if necessary. .
Inspect the Brakes
For your safety and peace of mind, check your car`s brakes before going on any long drive. You`ll easily notice if you`re having brake problems when you hear squeals or squeaks when braking.
Other signs that your car`s brake system needs repairs or replacements include having to step harder on the brake to get your car to stop or a spongy feel on the pedal. Your steering wheel or brake pedal may also vibrate due to contaminated brake pads or unaligned rotors.
Top Up the Fluids
Your car has plenty of fluids that ensure its optimal performance. These include the engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Check the level and condition of each, then flush and/or top up accordingly.
The most important fluids to check would be the engine oil and coolant. If your car is almost due for an oil change, it`s better to do it before your trip instead of waiting to reach the recommended mileage. For the coolant, make sure to change it if you see any floating particles or if it has become clear (which means it has become acidic).
Check the Filters
Your car has two filters: the engine filter and the cabin filter. The former ensures that your engine receives clean air for efficient combustion and acceleration. The latter ensures that your air conditioning works perfectly and doesn`t blow dust and dirt into the cabin.
In short, if both filters are dirty, they won`t be able to work as intended. Clean them up or replace them when necessary to ensure top-notch performance and ultimate comfort.
Replace the Lights, When Needed
Last but not least, make sure to check the lights in your car. They`re essential for visibility, helping ensure your safety and that of your passengers, fellow motorists, and pedestrians. Don`t just focus on the exterior lights, either! Check the cabin lights, too, as well as those on the dash.
If there are any burned out lights, get new ones immediately. The good thing is that auto parts stores carry different kinds of bulbs that can suit your needs. What`s more, you can easily DIY the replacement of car lights (especially the headlights).
With just a few crucial maintenance checks, you can guarantee a trouble-free and enjoyable road trip. Happy driving and stay safe on the road!