Now that warmer weather is here, you may be planning a road trip. Enjoying your road trip will be much easier to do if you take some necessary precautions to prevent breakdowns. Preparing your car for a long road trip may take a little bit of time, but will be well worth the effort in the long run. Here is a checklist you can use to make sure nothing is overlooked.
Check your Owner’s Manual
Check your owner’s manual to see if your vehicle is due for any routine maintenance. If there’s a chance your vehicle could become due for service during your trip, go ahead and get it done before you leave. You should also check your owner’s manual to see if the manufacturer recommends any particular service be performed prior to an extended road trip.
Visual Inspection
You should perform a visual inspection underneath the hood. Some things to check include:
- Condition of battery terminals
- Belts and hoses for signs of wear and/or slipping
- Fluid levels and their condition
- Air filter
After checking underneath your hood, have someone else help you check your headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals to see that they are operating properly. Next, check your horn, windshield wipers and tires to make sure they are all in good condition, and repair or replace anything that isn’t working correctly.
Brake Inspection
It’s important to start a long road trip with good brakes, which is why you should have a complete brake inspection performed ahead of time. At a minimum, this inspection should include brake pads, rotors, calibers and brake lines to ensure they are the right thickness and are operating correctly.
Prior to your trip, contact us for a brake inspection or any other needed repairs to ensure your vehicle is ready for its extended journey.