PRE-TRAVEL CAR TIPS
PRE-TRAVEL CAR TIPS
Whatever your travel plans may be in the summer (the beach, wine country, fishing, boating, camping, etc.) or in the winter (ski trip, family get-together, shopping) you should take a few minutes of your time to do a vehicle check to make sure its ready to get you there.
- Battery
and Battery Cables
Ask your technician to test the battery. Check the cables for signs of corrosion, cracks and dirt.
- Brake
pads and linings
The brake system is the car's most important safety system. Have the brake pads, linings, drums, rotors and fluids fully checked by a qualified technician.
- Cooling
System
Flush and refill the radiator according to the manufacturer's specifications. This service should include replacing the pressure cap and adding anti-freeze if necessary. A quality repair shop has a tool that can check your car’s antifreeze/coolant to make sure that it will provide adequate freeze protection.
- Engine
Light
A "Check Engine" ligh on is a sign of a problem and should never be ignored. The light tells you there may be a problem with your car's engine and powertrain control system. Make sure to have a qualified technician inspect your vehicle as soon as it turns on.
- Fluids
There are several fluids, in addition to antifreeze, that require attention, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission fluids and windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.
- Heater
and Defroster
Have a qualified technician to perform a complete heating system inspection including the belts and hoses.
- Hoses
and Belts
A belt that fails can affect the electrical system, air conditioning and power steering, as well as the cooling system. Cooling system hoses may be deteriorating from within, so old hoses and clamps in marginal condition might need to be replaced.
- Lighting
Test all the lights including brake lights, turn signals and fog lights to make sure they are working properly.
- Tires
Check tire inflation and inspect the tread for uneven wear, indicating the need for wheel alignment. Also look for bulges and bald spots.
- Tire
Chains (Winter)
Weather and road conditions can change suddenly if you are traveling in the mountains or the foothills. Always keep chains handy and learn how to install them.
- Wipers
Although climates vary, wipers generally need replacing every six months. An easy reminder is to change wiper blades in the spring and fall when you change your clock. Be sure the windshield washers are working properly, too, and keep the reservoir filled with solvent.
In addition to have your vehicle inspected, remember to:
- Keep your gas tank at least half-full, especially when driving at night or in bad weather conditions.
- Carry a cell phone with a fully charged battery in case of an emergency.
- Carry
a safety/emergency kit in the trunk of your car with the following
items:
- First aid supplies
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Tool kit (screwdriver, pliers, wrench, etc.)
- Windshield ice scraper
- Battery-powered radio with spare batteries
- Bottled water and non-perishable food
- Highway safety flares in good condition
- Blanket and warm clothing
- Replacement electrical fuses
You should plan ahead and make an appointment to perform a safety inspection to make sure your vehicle is in good traveling condition. A properly maintained vehicle is safer and more dependable, it also provides peace of mind.