In order to have a fun and memorable Road Trip, it is necessary to ensure that your vehicle is in its optimal condition. Road Trips are meant to be joyful and entertaining, but your one mistake could lead to a bad experience for you and everyone on board. Keeping the following points in mind will make sure that you are not left stranded in the middle of nowhere and will also help you to have a safe and pleasant journey without having to deal with any obstacles.
Check your Vehicle’s Fluid Levels
Before you go on a Road Trip, make sure that an optimal level of fluid is maintained in the following parts:
- Engine: Be sure to check the engine oil level and also top it up or replace it (if necessary) to avoid potential engine seizure
- Brake Fluid: Always make sure to have the correct amount of brake fluid in your vehicle to avoid the possibility of brake failures
- Coolant: Ensure that there is sufficient level of coolant in your vehicle to avoid overheating of the engine
- Windshield Washer: Make sure to fill up the reservoir of windshield washer
Tyres
They are a crucial part of your vehicle. Carelessness towards the tyres could be fatal. Therefore, it is necessary to make sure they are properly inflated according to the air pressure mentioned in the instruction manual. Additionally, check your tyre’s tread depth and make sure that they are safe for driving, if they are worn out, consider replacing them.
Brakes
A Brake Pad comes into contact with the brake disc when you apply the brakes, thus slowing down the vehicle to a complete halt. It is necessary to inspect the brake pads for any type of wear and tear and also check for any sort of unusual noise while applying the brakes. In case of worn out brake pads, it is essential to have them replaced.
Battery
Ensure that the battery is able to hold a charge. Furthermore, check and clean the battery terminals if you see any corrosion. An older battery (more than three years old) loses its efficiency, thus, it is better to have it tested to check whether it’s reliable.
Lights
Ensure proper functioning of headlights, tail lights, indicator signals, hazard lights, and fog lights. If you want to get any after-market lights installed in your vehicle, it is recommended to only install the lights that are of the same wattage as the ones that come as factory fitted. Always go for a branded quality light in place of a cheaper one, as the latter could damage the wiring leading to a short circuit, and can also give unnecessary load to the battery.
Documentations
Always carry the documents that are mandated by law to drive an automobile such as your Driving Licence, Vehicle Registration, Insurance, Pollution Under Control Certificate, and other such documents that may be obligatory depending on your region. Be sure to carry these documents before your car road trip to avoid potential hassles.
Emergency Supplies
- First Aid Kit: Always make sure to have a first aid kit present in your vehicle.
- Spare Tyre: Make sure that the spare tyre is inflated to its ideal level and is in good condition.
- Tool Kit: This includes a jack, a warning triangle, and other wrench sets.
- Jumper Cables: In case of a drained battery, a jumper cable can help in charging up the battery to get the vehicle running.
Although the above-mentioned points are only applicable to the vehicle, it is also important that the driver understands that his/her actions also affect the trip experience. Therefore, it is important to drive with a relaxed mind and think about others on the road too. Not driving under the influence of any substance, and wearing seat belts ensures not only your safety but of everyone travelling with you. Make your Road Trips special and unforgettable, don’t make your actions turn them into negative ones.
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