If you’re feeling inspired to take a trip cross-country, remember preparation is key. Road trips are great but poor planning and lack of car maintenance can spoil the fun immediately.
To ensure your road trip stays as smooth as possible, bring your car over to 800CarGuru to check the following:
- Tyres
An overall tyre inspection along with an alignment check falls on top of the list. With that you need to check the following:
(i) Tyre Pressure – the correct tyre pressure reduces chances of premature wear, a bumpy ride, overheating, and even tyre blowout.
(ii) Tyre Wear- Is the tyre tread in good condition? Are the tyre wear patterns uneven? Tyres are undependable if the tread is not deep enough, or they’re worn to a point they can’t gain traction.
- Brakes
In terms of safety a vehicle’s braking system’s condition must be at its best. It may overheat if it has not serviced in a while, putting you and your family at risk. One can never know what type of conditions you come across on the trip, it is pivotal to be as prepared as possible.
Some telltale signs that your braking system needs maintenance include squeaking, grinding, sponginess when you apply the brake pedal, and steering-wheel shaking.
- The Lighting
Of course, when driving at night, the headlights are the only the source of light. Brake lights, indicator lights are also equal important to be in good working condition. Without these the chances of accidents increase as well as of getting a ticket. On the contrary, there are also several bulbs inside the cabin that need occasional inspection and replacement. There’s nothing more irritating than trying to use an interior light only to discover it’s not working. Lights are not difficult to replace, 800CarGuru will have it done for you in no time!
- Fluids
Fluids you should check before you take off include oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid, and antifreeze. Check the oil level and the date or mileage for when you are due for an oil change. Then accordingly change the oil before you embark on your long trip.
If all these factors are under control, then there’s nothing stopping you from having an incredible road trip! Happy Travels!
