An automobile is the second most expensive purchase most people will make in their lives yet they are often the most mistreated. This can lead to break downs, blowouts, or even accidents if problems go unchecked so it is no wonder that America’s interstates are littered with broken down cars. Extreme hot and cold whether can also add to the problems and increase the need for better preparation. So if you are taking a road trip or long vacation we have a few tips to help make sure it goes safe, sound, and trouble free.
As always tire care is paramount. So it is no surprise we start there. We have spend a lot of time talking tires on InfiniteGarage.com and with good reason, they are maybe the most important part of your car. With out them being in good working condition your car can not go, stop, or turn. All pretty important things so our first road trip preparation tip is to check your tires. The sidewalls of the tires will tell you a lot but there should also be a sticker near the opening of the drivers side door that gives you vital information like what psi to inflate your tires to. You need to follow this to the tea and make sure you properly inflate your tires. Buy a tire gauge which can be had for a few dollars at any gas station to make sure you get it right. Tire prep does not stop there, also examine all four tires for uneven or excessive wear, any tears, nicks, or scrapes on the sidewall or anything else unusual. If you see any of this the fix may be as simple as an alignment, or as complex as needing new tires. Safety starts here so take ten minutes and do it right. You do not want to be stranded on the side of the road with a blown or flat tire. Lastly take the time to check your spare to insure it is inflated and make sure your jack is working properly. Hopefully you never need it but if you do you want it working safely.
Next up examine under the hood of the car. If you are reading this site you probably atleast have some idea of what is going on under there, if not read around this site and we’ll help. First things first check the oil. The car needs to be on a level place to do this. Pull the dipstick out, wipe it off with a towel, put it in, and pull it out again and recheck. If it is in the safe operating range you are good to go on oil. If not add it. Note you should check your oil weekly and never over fill the oil. It can be as bad as under filling.
With the oil checked move on to the other fluids in the car such as coolant, brake, transmission, and windshield washer fluid. You may need to consult your cars manual for instructions on how to check some of these fluids as it varies from car to car. All are very important, especially the coolant level, especially in the hot summer months. Even modern cars can over heat on a hot day during extended use or on big hills.
While you still have the hood up just check to see if anything looks warn, or busted. Pay particular attention to belts and hoses and they can be a sign of a problem about to happen. If you see something suspicious like a cracked belt and can not fix it yourself get it to a mechanic. If a belt lets go on your vacation you may have a very bad trip and a very expensive repair bill.
Lastly are the brakes, you probably aren’t going to take your wheels and tires so give the car a drive and see if you feel any squeeks, thumps, or if there is any drift under hard braking. Meaning does the car brake straight? If it does not you’ll want to get your brakes repaired.
The list may sound daunting but really you are looking at a half hour of your time tops. It is well worth it to potentially save the time and money on an expensive or dangerous break down. Most importantly a well running car means more fun on your trip!