Once you get a week off from work, the first thing that comes to mind is going on a road trip with your friends or family. Going on a trip is always exciting and therapeutic for some, especially if your destination is somewhere you haven’t explored before. That’s going to be an adventure of a lifetime.
But the last thing you want is to have your car break down in the middle of nowhere. If you haven’t gone to the place of your destination, it would be hard to navigate the location. You’ll be in a dilemma about whether to continue the trip or find your way back home. It would be a bummer if your dream trip turned into a nightmare.
Fortunately, all these mishaps can be avoided by preparing your car for a long drive. Here are some tips on how you can do it:
1. Visit the mechanic
A trip to your mechanic should be on your list before you go on a long drive. You need to ensure that everything is in good condition and that there are no underlying issues with your car. Your mechanic will do a thorough check-up and fix anything that needs fixing. This is necessary, especially if you own an auto that needs special treatment.
Some car models have parts that are easy to fix but also have certain parts that require special care. Take a Subaru as an example. Its alternators, radiators, and batteries are easy to fix, but you’ll need to take it to a specialist regarding its turbochargers and spark plugs. A Subaru repair specialist will know exactly what to do to avoid any issues while you’re on the road. If you can visit your mechanic early on, you’ll have enough time to fix anything that needs to be fixed.
So before you hit the road with your car, visit your trusted mechanic first. Catch any problems early on so you won’t have to deal with them while you’re already in the middle of your travel.
2. Inspect the brakes and tires
Your brakes and tires are vital in keeping you safe while driving. That’s why it’s crucial to inspect them before you go on a long drive. You need to ensure that they’re in good condition and that there aren’t any issues with them.
Good brakes can save lives. If your brakes are not in good condition, you run the risk of having an accident. The same goes for your tires. Worn-out tires can cause blowouts, which can be very dangerous while driving.
If you’re unsure how to do it, you can always take your car to a brake and tire shop. They will be able to check everything for you and let you know if any issues need to be addressed. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so don’t hesitate to have someone check your brakes and tires before you go on a long drive.
3. Bring a spare tire
Nothing’s better than being prepared. If you’re going on a long drive, it’s always a good idea to bring a spare tire. You never know when you might need it. A spare tire can come in handy if you have a flat tire or get a blowout while driving.
Don’t forget to bring your tools with you as well. You’ll need them to change the tire. If you don’t know how to do it, read the manual or watch a video on changing a tire before going on your trip. Prevent the inconvenience of having to call for help by bringing a spare tire with you. Make sure to bring a spare tire with you on a long drive.
4. Check the oil and other fluids
Your car needs oil to run. That’s why you need to ensure that the oil level is adequate before going on a long drive. Oil degrades over time, so it’s essential to check it regularly. Change the oil if it’s already time for you to change it. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
You should also check the other fluids in your cars, such as the coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. These fluids play an important role in keeping your car running smoothly.
If you’re unsure how to do it, you can always take your car to a service station and have them check the oil and other fluids. Give yourself ample time to do this so you won’t have to worry about it while you’re already on the road.
5. Fill up the gas tank
Make sure your gas tank is full before going on a long drive. You don’t want to run out of gas in the middle of nowhere. Proper planning before going on a long drive is the key to avoiding this hassle.
Plan your route, and stop at gas stations when you need to. It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan. Bring a portable gas can with you if you run into any issues.
Following these tips will help ensure that you’ll have a smooth and enjoyable trip. Avoid the hassles of having car trouble by preparing your car ahead of time. This way, you can focus on enjoying the company of your loved ones and create lasting memories together.
