I always prefer to inspect my car thoroughly before going on a trip. Due to some unfortunate experience, going on a long drive without preparing for it is the worst nightmare for me. Hence, I always test my brakes, headlights, tires, etc.
Having a breakdown far from your city is the worst thing. Also, a majority of accidents happen in low visibility (NSC). So, if you are also planning to spend your vacation out of your city and enjoy a long trip, I recommend you run a detailed inspection on your car. While a professional can do the job much better, if you still want to do it yourself, I can help you with that as well.
Keep reading this article till the end to know what things you must check.
1. Inspect Your Tires
While inspecting whether the tires of your car are fit for a road trip, you must run a few checks. Start with checking the tread depth to ensure adequate grip and inspect for any signs of wear or damage. Proper tire pressure is necessary for fuel efficiency and safety.
Modern cars are also integrating new tech like tire pressure monitoring systems. Using such a digital tire pressure gauge can give you an accurate reading and help you maintain the recommended levels as specified in your car’s manual.
2. Check Fluid Levels
Your car relies on various fluids to function properly, such as engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. Ensure these are topped up and clean. Dirty or low fluids can cause significant problems during long drives.
While petrol or diesel are obviously needed for your vehicle, not having engine oil, brake fluid, etc. to their fittest can significantly damage your car. Hence, it is recommended to perform a thorough inspection in such areas to ensure everything is fine.
3. Test Your Battery
A dead battery can quickly turn a road trip into a nightmare. Before hitting the roads, test your battery to confirm it’s holding a charge, and clean the terminals to ensure a secure connection. If your battery is more than three years old, consider having it professionally tested or replaced.
Run thorough research on the internet or ask the professional mechanics at the official service centers about what battery is going to be the best fit for your car. If the batter gets dead in the middle of the trip, it can be a serious pain.
4. Examine Lights and Wipers
Electronics and buttons must be working and in good condition. Ensure all your car’s lights—headlights, brake lights, and indicators—are functioning correctly. Replace any blown bulbs. Also, check the condition of your windshield wipers and washer fluid. Clear visibility is vital, especially when driving in unfamiliar areas.
DID YOU KNOW? Around 50% of the total fatal accidents happen around the dark hours when there is low visibility. Hence, to stay away from such mishappening, it is recommended that you get all your lights and wipers in place.
5. Pack an Emergency Kit
Prepare for unexpected situations by packing a roadside emergency kit. Include essentials like a flashlight, jumper cables, basic tools, first-aid supplies, and non-perishable snacks.
You can also rely on the emergency kit you get with your car. However, that kit does not include all the essentials needed in a fatal accident. Hence, focus on having all the first aid items and medical supplies in the car.
6. Plan for Comfort
If going to a terrain that has different weather from your home location, run a thorough inspection if your AC and heater are working well. Depending on the hot location or a cold location, your air conditioning and heating systems must work to its fullest. A comfortable cabin temperature can make long hours on the road much more pleasant.
This becomes even more important when you are traveling to a remote location. Be it mountain or some beach, if the weather condition is going to be new for you, get your AC and heaters checked.
7. Brake Check
Brakes are critical for safety. Listen for any unusual noises and check for vibration when braking. If you notice anything abnormal, have them inspected by a mechanic before your trip.
Getting brakes failed is a common mishap when driving at hill stations. So, maintain proper use of these parts and get them repaired if there is any fault.
According to Research Gate’s survey, these are some common brake defects that are frequent among drivers and need to be resolved to stay away from accidents. It is recommended to ensure there is no chance of such defects when going on a road trip.
Conclusion
Proper preparation can make all the difference between a dream road trip and a roadside nightmare. By taking the time to inspect your car, address potential issues, and ensure it’s clean and organized, you’re setting yourself up for a successful journey.
As a finishing touch, consider scheduling a car detailing session before your trip. A clean and fresh interior can elevate your travel experience, ensuring you enjoy every mile.
With these essential maintenance tips, you’ll be ready to hit the road with confidence and create unforgettable memories along the way!
