We ask a lot of our vehicles when we depart on a road trip. Extra miles and extended drive times mean it is important to take care of a few minor car maintenance tasks before hitting the road for a trip. Here are 5 things to check.
1Check Tires
These are so important to keep up with even with normal everyday driving, but even more so for a road trip. If your tires are not in good condition, there are so many things that it will affect from your gas mileage to your engine performance. Also, depending on where you’re going, having newer tires can mean the difference between chancing a flat and making it back home safely. Make sure to check the air in all of your tires and to make sure that you have a spare. Also, check the tire pressure before you head out on your trip. Newer cars have tire pressure sensors reminding you to check that pressure. If your car doesn’t have this sensor, you can find a tire pressure gauge at most gas stations.
2Brakes: Look & Listen
This includes looking at them visually as well as listening to them to make sure they are in good condition. If they are excessively rusted or if you are hearing grinding or squeaking it may be time to get new brake pads. If you haven’t changed your rotors in a while, they may also need to be replaced.
3Check Fluid Levels
Along with tires and brakes, fluids are one of the most important things that contribute to the health of your vehicle as well as your safety. You want to make sure all your fluids are filled to the correct level, including oil, coolant, washer fluid, brake fluid, and any other oils especially if you haven’t had a maintenance check done on your vehicle recently.
4Get an Emergency Kit
If you don’t already keep an emergency kit, you should. You should have a backup first aid kit, a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, snacks and water, and a basic tool kit. It’s also good to have a rag or paper towels to wipe things down or check your fluids when you need to for convenience.
5Get Your Papers in Order
On a road trip, you should have proof of insurance, vehicle registration, your driver’s license, the owner’s manual, contact numbers, and warranty information if you need it. Not only would you need these if you get pulled over for some reason, but having these in case something were to happen while you are on the road is a good idea.
Road trips can be extremely fun and full of adventures and by making sure your car is ready for the trip, you can prevent some things that might happen while on the road, leaving you the peace of mind to enjoy yourself.
This article is brought to you by Ford Lincoln of Franklin, helping you and your family make road trip memories. Ford Lincoln of Franklin offers new and pre-owned vehicles. Check out their inventory here and visit them in person at 1129 Murfreesboro Rd, Franklin, TN 37064.
