Prepare Your Car For A Long Road Trip
Posted on August 15, 2020
As well as keeping up with regular car servicing and a car care routine, there are certain things that really need to be checked ahead of going on a big trip. So, here are a few tips for what to look over before you set off to give the best chance of a trouble-free journey.
Tyres
Few things that are as easy to check can ruin your day like a failed tyre, but if they're not right they can also affect other areas of your car as well. Making sure there's plenty of tread and no damage is essential prior to setting off, but even if they look good, the pressures also need to be checked to ensure the car drives and stops as it should and doesn't use more gas than need be. And remember to check the spare tyre.
Fluids
There are a number of fluids that are vital to the healthy running of your car, and many of them will be taken off your list as long as you're on top of your regular servicing schedule. Brake, transmission and power steering fluid are not things you'll need to worry about if you get your car serviced on time, but there are a few you will need to check, especially in the warmer summer weather. Your radiator needs the right level of coolant, your window washer reservoir needs to be kept topped up, and of course, engine oil is a vital thing to check. If you're in-between services and you're planning a really long trip, it might be an idea to get an oil change, just to be on the safe side.
Tools
You may well have checked the tyres to ensure their condition and pressures, including the spare, but what about the tools necessary for changing a wheel. Is the jack all there, is there a tool for removing the wheel nuts, and if you have alloy wheels do you need a locking wheel nut key and do you have it in the car? Even the best tyres can have a puncture or blow out, but not much can be done to rectify the situation without the necessary tools.
Improve your Outlook
Washing a car before setting off is a good idea, especially the windows. Dirt and grime can make visibility difficult in all sorts of different conditions, both on the inside and outside of the glass. It's also a good idea to check wiper blades to see if there are any splits or nicks or if the rubber is perishing. Changing wipers is affordable and easy, so there's no excuse really for neglecting it.
For more information and for help with anything you're not confident of doing yourself, don't hesitate to get in touch with us here at Caledon Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram today.