Summer Road Trip? Check out this Maintenance List before Heading Out!
There is nothing more exciting, like hitting the open highways with family and friends in the summer. There is just something about road trips that’s very liberating. Not only are road trips a great way to bond with your family but also a great way to learn history and culture. With a road trip, the adventure starts the moment you pull off from your parking bay.
But, sometimes, a road trip can go wrong if you do not plan and prepare well; especially for a vehicle that’s about to go for miles and miles!
A road trip can be really hard on a car, so before you hit the road, you need to make sure your vehicle is in good condition and up for the challenge. This will prevent unnecessary headaches and delays along the way.
If you are planning for a road trip, please be sure to check out this car maintenance list before heading out!
- Change the Oil and Check Fluids
Car oil is usually changed every 3 to 4 months or after every 3,000 miles. If you are planning for a road trip, consider getting the oil changed, even before the 3000 mile mark, as you will be driving for a much longer distance, away from your regular auto shop and possibly in remote areas. Err on the side of caution.
- Spare Tire
You need to make sure you have a spare tire that is in good working order; well inflated with good tread. You also need to know how to change a flat tire. Lastly, make sure you have the equipment to change the tire; a Jack and a tire metal rod.
- Check your brakes
Make sure that your brake pads are in good shape and that your brake system is functioning properly. If you have any doubts about them, have them checked by companies that offer brake repair in Sacramento, or repair wherever you are based, to ensure your vehicle is running smoothly. Make sure to top up your brake fluid too.
- Emergency Car Kit
The emergency kit should include a first aid kit and troubleshooting tools that might help you out in the event of a breakdown; Jumpers cables, rope, flares, screwdrivers, pliers and a flashlight.
- Empty Gas Can
If you are planning to go deep into the countryside, you may need to carry an extra gas can or two. You don’t want to get stranded in the middle of nowhere when you ran out of gas.
- Battery Check
If your car battery is a few years old, check that the battery terminals are not corrosive, and the negative and positive leads are not loose. If the sound of the starter is a bit sluggish, it’s probably a dying battery or corrosion on the edges. Don’t wait to get stuck with a dead auto battery in the middle of nowhere. Have an auto mechanic check it out before you head out.
- Air Conditioner Checkup
Make sure to check your air conditioner before starting your road trip. This is one thing that you should not miss on a summer road trip.
Before you begin your road trip,you need to familiarize yourself with the window tinting laws of the various states you will be driving to. You might be unknowingly breaking the law, and as we all know, ignorance of the law is not a defense.
Ensure your adventure runs smoothly and remains a fun one with the above maintenance list.
