5 Tips on How to Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip

By Guest Blogger, Brigitte E., Editor at highstylelife.com

5 Tips on How to Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip

Road trips are an increasingly popular form of vacation gaining traction across the globe. In countries like Australia, the horizon of possibilities stretches far beyond what you can even imagine. Coastal trips are becoming more and more popular, attracting families, friend posies, and solo travelers. However, there are some things you might want to do before you hop in your car. Heading out in the open road unprepared is not the wisest move. You need to ensure your car is ready to endure all the trials and tribulations ahead.

Maintenance tasks

On the surface, your vehicle might appear to be fine, but do not take any chances. Carry out thorough maintenance beforehand and see to it that there are no safety concerns. Tightly secure hoses and belts. Make certain there are no cracks in the windshield. Perform a simple voltage test to check whether your battery is fit for a challenge. Scorching temperatures in the Australian outback can really build up under the hood. This is more than a minor inconvenience as it can really drain your car’s battery, especially if it is an aged one. You certainly do not want to get stranded in the middle of nowhere.

Mechanical checkup

From a mechanical standpoint, everything should work like clockwork. Breaks are a key safety component, so measure their pads and audit brake fluid level. Furthermore, inspect the filter, which constantly supplies your engine with air. While at it, look at the lights, including headlights, brake and hazard lights, blinkers, and interior lights. This prevents your visibility from being impaired on the road. Of course, should you encounter difficulties, you can call professionals to inspect the vehicle.  I hired a mobile mechanic from the Gold Coast and hit the road fully confident.

All fluids go

Cars need their fluids just like our bodies need them. Therefore, auditing their level is always high on the checklist. Those who are going on a longer road trip need to top up windshield washer, transmission, and wiper fluids. Do not overlook radiator coolant or power steering fluid either. As for antifreeze/engine coolant, it is also vital, even more so for colder destinations. Namely, chilly weather could freeze fluids in your car and lead to serious setbacks and costly repairs. Finally, see if it is time to do an oil change. We cannot stress enough the importance of having enough juice at all times.

Tire pressure and condition

Tires take the heaviest beating and they must be in tiptop shape. So, check if your tire pressure is on the level prescribed in the owner’s manual. Next, assess their condition: there should be no bulges in the sidewall. In case your tires are more than two years old, then it is recommended to examine the tread depth. Do a penny test to see how it holds up. Hold a Lincoln penny and place it head-down in one of the grooves of the tire surface. If the tread does not obscure all of Lincoln’s head on the coin, your tire is good to go.

 

Stay fresh and clean

It is also a good idea to give your car a good scrub and wipe. After all, cleaning the inside and out will ensure you have the most pleasant road experience. A good place to start is decluttering. Get all the unnecessary items out of the vehicle and make room for those you are going to need once you set off (such as an emergency kit with road flares, jumper cables, etc.). See to it there is no garbage or food residue anywhere. Vacuum the floor, clean the windows, and dust all interior surfaces. Add an air freshener to do away with bad smells.

Smooth sailing

To stay on the safe side, you should schedule an extensive checkup and maintenance.  This is an essential part of trip planning and preparation. In other words, get a closer look at what is happening under the hood. Pay close attention to things like tire pressure and fluid level. Be ready for whatever comes your way and see to it that your vehicle runs like clockwork — both you and your four-wheeled friend must be up to a task. Doing due diligence will give you peace of mind and minimize risks, even when wandering off the beating track.

Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
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