5 Car Maintenance Tips for a Successful Road Trip
If you had a plan for going on a long journey, but when you check your vehicle before starting your journey and you notice that your vehicle needs an oil change, new wipers, a replacement bulb or a new windshield, avoid waiting until the last minute to remedy to the situation. If one of the dashboard warning lights is on or if you doubt the general condition of your car, ask your mechanic for a complete diagnosis ... after all, prevention is better than cure! Otherwise, the following few checks should guarantee you a comfortable trip!
1. Check the fluid level:
As you may already know, the fluids in your vehicle are necessary for it to function properly. In addition, keeping them at the appropriate level saves fuel and keeps your car longer. It is therefore in your interest to check the level of each one: engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. To check the various fluids, park your vehicle on level ground and wait for the engine to cool completely. If you have any doubts about the location of the various tanks, consult your owner's manual.
The motor oil acts as a lubricant; it is absolutely essential for the proper functioning of your car. To check the level, remove the dipstick, wipe it with a cloth, submerge it again, and then remove it again. Add oil if necessary, but do not add more than the mark tells you. If the liquid is black, grainy, or below the minimum required, go to your garage.
The coolant absorbs the heat produced by the engine which then dissipates by circulating in the radiator. Driving with an insufficient level of this liquid will cause the engine to overheat. Note that it is imperative to wait until the engine of your vehicle is cold before starting the verification. The opposite could be dangerous. If there is not enough liquid, add more. If the liquid level is below the minimum or if the tank seems to be leaking, talk to your mechanic.
The power steering (or power steering) fluid allows you to turn the steering wheel with ease; if you have difficulty handling it, it is likely that the fluid level is too low. To locate its tank, refer to your owner's manual: its location differs depending on the vehicle. Before adjusting the amount, check the color of the liquid; it should be pale pink or orange. If it is brown or black, go to your garage.
If the brake fluid level is somewhere between the maximum and the recommended minimum, everything is in order. However, if it is below the minimum level or if it is black or brown, go to your mechanic; there could be a leak in the tank or too much impurities in the fluid.
If you experience difficulty or hear noises when changing gears, the transmission fluid could be to blame. The location of its tank and the verification process varies depending on the vehicle model; in some cases, only a professional will be able to inspect it. We, therefore, advise you to refer to your owner's manual before getting started.
Last but not least, the windshield washer fluid. Although it has no direct influence on the performance of your vehicle, it is absolutely essential for safe driving. Before leaving, be sure to fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir to the maximum level.
2. Examine your tires:
For safety, comfort and energy efficiency, it is essential to check the pressure of your tires before traveling a long journey. An over-inflated tire reduces the quality of handling and grip; an under-inflated tire makes driving unstable, results in higher fuel consumption and the risk of exploding. In all cases, improper air pressure causes premature and uneven tire wear. Before leaving, also check the condition of your tires by measuring their tread. If the thickness is less than 1.6 mm, it is time to replace your tires.
3. Make sure you have good brakes:
Although you can check the condition of your brakes for yourself, we recommend that you make an appointment with your mechanic to have a full inspection of the various components of the braking system. Needless to say, bad brakes could be a threat to your safety.
4. Change your air filters as needed:
Your vehicle contains two air filters: one in the passenger compartment and one for the engine. The first is to clean the air you breathe when your car is running. In most vehicles, it is located under the glove compartment and is easily accessible. The engine filter significantly influences performance and fuel consumption. It is located under the hood, usually in a square or rectangular box with the big black pipe.
Theoretically, these filters (whose price varies between $ 15 and $ 30) should be replaced every year. If they are opaque, it is high time to change them! Obviously, you can use your owner's manual to locate the filters. If you are not comfortable replacing them yourself, make an appointment with your garage!
5. In your vehicle, make sure you have:
- your owner's manual;
- your papers (driving license, registration, insurance, passport, etc.);
- a spare tire;
- booster cables;
- GPS or road maps;
- a first aid kit.
There you are, you're ready. Have a nice trip!
