Five Important Safety Checks Before a Road Trip

If you have only used your car for going to and from work during the cold months, you probably can’t wait to hit the highway and go on a road trip. To make it more enjoyable, it is important that you carry out some important safety checks and ensure that your vehicle is ready for the challenges ahead. To make the most out of your day out, carry out these necessary inspections.

  1. Listen to the Engine

The first step should be to listen to your engine running. If it needs a tune-up, or it doesn’t sound like it usually does, and you hear clinging or metallic sounds from under the bonnet, it might be time to book an engine diagnostics at Campbell Auto Repair before you hit the road. A noise from the engine can indicate a developing problem that will only get worse after driving a few hundred miles, so don’t ignore it.

  1. Inspect Your Tires and Brakes

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During the cold months your car tires are under extreme pressure, so it is crucial that you check them. Look at visible signs of damage, such as cuts and bulges, and measure the thread, so you can expect to get adequate grip on the road whenever you have to brake suddenly. You should also test your brakes before you start off, and make sure you are familiar with the force you have to apply to stop.

  1. Fluid Levels

You are more likely to use your windscreen washer in the summer than in the winter, and – to maintain your maximum road visibility – you will have to. Fill up your liquid, as well as your engine coolant. If you haven’t had your air conditioning system checked and serviced in the past year, you might want to get this out of the way, so everyone can enjoy the perfect temperature inside the cabin.

  1. Get Your Batteries Tested

Batteries are under a lot of pressure these days. You are not only running your headlights in the dark, but also charge various devices in the cabin. Your battery has to power your satellite navigation and audio system, too. Go down to your local car service and get it tested, to make sure you will not end up waiting for recovery on the side of the road instead of enjoying a picnic in a national park.

  1. Oil and Lubricants

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Depending on the make and model of your car, you will need to get your oil changed every 6-12 months. Before you go on a long journey, it is important that you get your car serviced; not only to prevent breakdowns, but also to make your engine more fuel efficient overall. Break lubricants also have to be checked, so you can safely stop when you have to. Stay safe on the road and give your car a TLC before a long trip.

To make the most out of your driving experience this summer, always start your journey with a thorough safety check, so you can enjoy your time without having to worry about your car’s performance.