This page is brought to you as a public service by AutoPartsPlenty
Preparing your auto for a safe trip
Taking a road trip in the near future? When planning a trip, no matter how far it is, it's important to make sure your auto is ready for the road. A small amount of time spent making sure your vehicle is ready for the trip can help you avoid expensive problems on the road that can ruin your trip. This page is intended to serve as a guide to help you make sure your vehicle will perform safely and reliably.
There are several things you should check to make sure your vehicle is ready for the trip you are about to take.
1. Engine oil
Your car depends on oil to lubricate moving parts in the engine. It's important to make sure that your oil level is adequate and that your oil is clean. You can do this by checking your vehicles owners manual for the location of the engine oil dip-stick and how to read it for the proper oil level.
The engine oil level is checked with the engine not running.
When checking the oil, look at the color of it. If it's a dark color then it may be time to change your oil. Don't let dirty oil cause premature wear and/or failure of your engine.
Always keep a record of when your engine oil has been changed and make sure it will not become due while on a long trip. Change it early, before the trip, and avoid abusing your engine from running with contaminated engine oil. Always use a high grade of engine oil and replace the oil filter with every oil change if you want to get the maximum life out of your engine.
2. Transmission fluid
Be sure to check your transmission fluid or oil level. Once again you should consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the location and proper level of the transmission fluid. If the fluid or oil is due for a change, have it changed before the trip. If you have a manual transmission, you will probably have to take your car to a shop where it can be raised on a lift for access to the transmission oil port where the level is checked.
When checking the fluid in an automatic transmission, note the color and smell of the fluid on the dipstick. If the fluid is dark or if it smells burnt, have the transmission checked by professionals. It may be approaching a breakdown.
When checking the fluid level in an automatic transmission, you will probably have to start your engine and shift through each of the gears first. You will check it with the engine running so be careful. Confirm this with your owner's manual.
3. Engine cooling system
It is essential to check your engine coolant level, and the condition of your fan belts and hoses.
Do not attempt to check coolant levels on a hot engine. Let it cool, then remove the radiator cap. The coolant level should be right up to the top of the radiator, and there should be additional coolant in the overflow tank (if so equipped). Add coolant ( before adding, create a 50% antifreeze/water mixture by mixing one quart of antifreeze to one quart of water )
Never attempt to remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. Most caps lock under the steam pressure, but to avoid the risk of serious burns from steam and hot coolant, don't try it.
Check the condition of drive belts. Any drive belt that is frayed or cracked should be replaced. A broken drive belt can quickly lead to an overheated engine.
Check the condition of the coolant hoses that connect to the radiator or to the heater. If they show deterioration or are already leaking, have them replaced.
4. Tires
Next you will want to check your tires and tire pressure.
Be sure to include your spare tire in your pre-trip inspection.
Tires that are worn down to the wear ridges, or are worn unevenly may need replaced. If in doubt, have them inspected by a tire shop.
Inspect all your tires for damage, not only on the tread surface but also on the sidewalls.
Finally, check the air pressure in all your tires. This can be done with a tire pressure gauge sold at most auto parts stores. Most tires require pressure between 32-35 pounds per square inch (PSI). The actual pressure called for is molded into the sidewall of the tire.
If a tire is found to be seriously under inflated, it probably has a leak and should be repaired at a tire shop before making a trip. Under inflated tires can run hot and blow out, causing potentially serious loss of control of your vehicle. Over inflated tires can also blow out from the high pressure.
5. Brakes
Make sure your brakes are in good shape before you leave for your trip. Defective brakes not only affect your safety, they can lead to an expensive repair bill if not corrected soon enough.
Check the brake fluid level in the brake master cylinder. If it's low, add some brake fluid.
Next, look under your car at the inside sidewall of the tires. If you see radial streaks on the sidewalls, it's probably brake fluid leaking from the brakes on that wheel. You must have this corrected immediately.
If your brake pads (disk brakes) or brake shoes (drum brakes) have not been recently inspected, or if your car pull to one side when braking, or if you hear grinding noises or a high pitched squeal when braking, have your pads or shoes inspected professionally.
6. Windshield
Good visibility is essential for safe driving.
Make sure your windshield washer fluid tank is filled and that the wipers and washers work properly. Also clean your windshield inside and out with a good glass cleaner.
7. Air filter
If your engine air filter is old, or if you're not sure of it's condition, consult your owner's manual or a service manual and check the filter. If it's dirty, replace it. A dirty air filter may not leave you stranded on your trip but it can cause excessive fuel consumption.
8. Engine tuning
If your vehicle has been experiencing difficulty in starting, or if it idles rough or stalls, it may be time for a tune up. Tuning problems can leave you stranded a long way from home. Take your automobile to shop for a professional tune up before you head out on your trip.
9. The driver
The most dangerous element of your vehicle can be you, the driver. Make sure you've have adequate sleep before getting on the road, and make sure you plan for frequent rest stops. If you're stressed out, don't take your rage on the road. Relax and accept that you may run into traffic jams or other delays. Plan your trip with enough time that you don't have to speed.
With proper preparation and adequate time, you auto trip can be enjoyable and safe ... something you can look forward to rather than dread.
All these steps should be completed before the start of any trip. Help to ensure your safety and the safety of those sharing the road with you. Check all your fluid, tires, etc. before you set out. Make your next trip enjoyable and help eliminate headaches by following these steps to a more healthier vehicle.