Is Your Car Road Trip Ready?
4 Questions to Ask While You Plan:
What kind of conditions will you encounter, and can your car handle them?
How many miles do you want to put on your car and how many miles are you comfortable driving in one day?
What’s your game plan if something happens to your car?
Is your car ready for your road trip?
To check if your car is ready for your great escape, a check-up should include the following:
The 6 Essential Fluids
Engine Oil should be checked every 1,000 to 3,000 miles with a new filter replacement every oil change.
Low Engine Coolant can cause overheating, especially in hot weather when you have a fully loaded vehicle.
Change your Brake Fluid if the brake pedal starts to feel soft and spongy or approximately every 24,000 miles.
Power Steering Fluid should be replaced annually to extend the life of your Steering gear and Power Steering pump.
Check the Transmission Fluid whenever you get an oil change and replaced according to the manufacturer’s scheduled maintenance.
Remember the importance of fresh wipers and Windshield Washer Fluid to ensure a safe driving experience during weather events.
Tires
Air Pressure should be checked at least every 1000 miles. To be on the safe side, check visually at every stop.
A Rotation should be done every 5,000 to 8,000 miles or sooner if you notice uneven wear.
The Condition of your tires should be checked for noticeable damages. Uneven tread wear and odd wear patterns mean that a checkup is overdue.
Wheel Alignment check will extend tire life and fuel mileage.
General Maintenance
Brake Pads can last between 25,000 to 50,000 miles before they wear thin. You should have them checked at every oil change.
Air Filters, both in the engine and cabin, should be replaced every 10,000 to 15,000 miles or as suggested in the owners’ manual.
Light Bulbs are easy to look over until you’re driving in the dark. Make sure to check all lights before you take off.
Belts and Hoses should get a quick check over for any cracks or fraying, especially inside the belt.
If the Battery is over two years old, check and clean corrosive build-up on the cables.