Going on a road trip is always a treat amidst the busy schedule. But sometimes the pleasant trip can become a not-so-pleasant when all of a sudden your car engine is heated up or there is some problem with the wheels or tires. To avoid such an experience you need to make sure you have prepared for the long drive. Below are tips on how to prepare your car for a road trip.
Check the tires
The first and foremost thing that you should check is your car tires. Normally you can check your car tires for wear and tear on weekly basis but since there is no time so you need the optimum solution. Here is a quick tip: Place a penny in the tread of the car while pointing the Lincoln head away from the tire. If you see the entire head it’s time to change the tires immediately and if it is visible above the forehead then you need to change the tire soon.
Also, check for the tire pressure because it cannot only cause problems but also affect mileage and fuel consumption. The most important thing is to have a spare in your trunk. Aside from that make sure you know how to change the tire and you must have the necessary tools to do it.
Check the Coolant
Before you start your journey check the radiator fluid level and also check the reserve tank as well. Also, check the radiator hose for cracks and wear and tear. While you are checking also make sure to check all the belts’ quality and replace if the quality of any of the belts is not good.
Also Read: ALLOY WHEEL REPAIR KIT AT HOME (DIY)
Check the Oil
Oil is the most important fluid in the car. So it is very important to check it before starting your journey. Calculate the miles you have driven. Typically you should change your car after 5000 miles so calculate how much you will be traveling. You can hit your garage for an hour to change your oil and you are all good to go. To be on the safe side keep a quarter or two as a spare if you plan to extend your voyage further. Because along with the road mechanic shops are expensive.
Take care of the transmission
If you own a manual vehicle the checking the transmission fuel is a must, and if it needs replacement, replace it right away. However, in automatic transmission, you don’t need to worry a lot about the transmission fuel. To be safe, check the transmission fuel if it needs changing. Since this is a complicated process so if you think it can work over the trip then don’t change. Change it by a professional when you come back after your road trip.
Air Filters
Check the air filters, if it needs replacement, replace it right away. It does not take a lot of time to replace it on your own. You can take tips from our blog post AUTO REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE TIPS, skip to the changing air filter part.
Check the Brakes
You don’t want to go on a road trip with bad brakes. It’s the equivalent of a suicide mission. In case the pads or rotors have problems, then there is no quick fix to that. Seek the help of a professional auto repair service. If you cannot find an auto repair shop instantly, better take another vehicle or postpone your trip.
Wiper Fluid
If you are going on a highway at high speed, there are going to be a lot of bugs and grimes accumulated on your windscreen. So make sure the wiper fluids are full and the wipers are working properly.
Bonus Tip
Above all, since you will be driving your vehicle so you should also be fit and completely in normal condition. Rest well the night before and make sure to make some homemade food, enough clothes, and water for the ride. It’s economical and homemade food can save you from problems like food poisoning.
End Notes
Road trips are beautiful and essential but make sure to be prepared for every possible condition. By following the tips above you can pretty much prepare your car for the trip but in case you are stuck and don’t know what to do, use our onsite repair services or if you need wheels or rims for your car we can deliver those at your doorstep in the minimum possible time.
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