Sounds like you’re almost ready for your road trip. But before you hit the bitumen, make sure that you have taken care of the most important factor of all – your vehicle condition.
Here’s how to prepare your car for a long drive.
Battery
Being stranded with a dead battery is time consuming and potentially costly. Inspect the visual condition of your car battery before you hit the road for signs of terminal corrosion, acid leaks, cracks or other damage. Should you notice any abnormalities, it’s best to get the battery inspected or changed. Your local mechanic will be able to test the battery for power and condition – or you can have a mechanic come to you!
Windscreen wipers
Driving in wet weather is dangerous enough. Add unfamiliar terrain and failing windscreen wipers, and you are in trouble. Inspect your wipers before you leave. If they are skidding across the glass or leaving streaks, it’s time for a replacement. This replacement isn’t expensive or difficult – in many cases it will just be a matter of swapping the rubber washer rather than the blade itself. A small price to pay for safety and peace of mind.
Windscreen
Inspect your windscreen for any small chips or cracks and get them repaired before you set off. Although it may seem insignificant now, a small chip can actually represent a major safety hazard. All it takes is one rough jolt or stray pebble to completely crack a compromised windscreen.
Tyres
Your tyres connect you with the road – make sure that they are in good condition. Check that your tyres still have plenty of tread, are free from lumps, and are inflated to the correct pressure. The right tyre pressure will not only ensure that safest and smoothest ride, but also improve your fuel efficiency.
When doing this check, don’t forget about your spare tyre. Is it accessible? Is it inflated to the correct pressure? Does it have any leaks? Is your jack still operational? There is nothing more frustrating than blowing a tyre, only to discover that your spare is no good as well.
Inspect, top up and replace fluids and filters
The fluids and filters in your car each perform different but essential jobs. To keep your car running well, it’s important to ensure that they are all in good condition. Inspect the:
Engine oil
Engine filer
Air filter
Fuel filter
Transmission fluid
Coolant
Brake fluid
Power steering fluid
Windscreen washer fluid
If you don’t have the knowledge or the time to complete this inspection effectively, it is best to consult a professional.
Like EAI’s Express Service, most mechanics include a full inspection as part of their basic engine oil and filter change.
Owner’s manual
Your owner’s manual contains more useful information than you may think. It can tell you where the jack is located, how to change your tyre and how to tow a trailer on your vehicle. It will also indicate appropriate fluid levels and tyre pressure, as well as what that pesky dashboard light is trying to tell you. Make sure you have your manual on board.
Lost your manual? Never fear. Many car manuals are available for free download through this website, or alternatively by doing a quick Google search of your manufacturer. You can also order the printed version of your manual from your local dealer.
