The holidays are right around the corner. Many people take road trips during this time of year to visit their long lost cousins or aunties. In order to ensure a smooth trip you’ll want to do a pre-trip checklist, going over all of the safety features and making sure all your vehicle’s systems are in good working order.
Top Off Fluids!
This is something you’ll want to stay on top of all of the time, but especially before going on a long road trip. Making sure all of your fluids are full and changed at the proper intervals helps to keep your vehicle reliable. Failure to do so can result in an overheating engine, poor power steering or power brakes, or trouble shifting gears. The critical fluid levels you should check before going on a long road trip are:
- Oil level
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Coolant/antifreeze
If you don’t know how to check these fluids, you can take your vehicle down to your local lube shop and they can usually help you make sure everything is full. Or, call a mobile mechanic to come do a thorough inspection before you get on the road for your holiday trip.
Check Your Tire Pressure
Not only can driving on deflated tires be dangerous, but it can also be costing you gas mileage! An important thing to remember about tire pressure that can change depending on the temperature. If the weather is cold, your tire pressure might be a bit lower than you anticipated. It’s always good to top off your tires with some air before heading out on a big trip. You can get a tire pressure gauge for just a few bucks at your local auto parts store for just a few bucks, and we recommend you keep a handful of quarters in your car so you can use the gas station air pump if you need to along the way.
Don’t forget to check your spare tire before hopping to drive across the country! You’ll want to make sure that the spare tire is both inflated properly and has tread in good condition. You never know when you might get a flat tire, and having a spare in the back can be a lifesaver!
Replace Your Windshield Wipers
There is nothing worse than getting caught driving in a snowstorm with windshield wipers that don’t work. This risk is increased especially when driving during the holiday season. Visibility is key to staying safe out on the roads, that’s why it is important to make sure your wipers are in good working order before setting out on your trip. It’s often recommended to replace your windshield wipers every 6-12 months for optimal performance. If you want to increase your visibility on the roads even more, you can try a product like Rain-X to really keep the water at bay.
Inspect Hoses And Belts
A quick peek under the hood at the belts and hose connections can save you from getting stranded in the middle of nowhere. You’ll want to make sure that all the visible hose connections are, well, connected. And that they are secured tightly. Be sure that all the belts are tight and not at risk of sliding off their pulleys. Additionally, you will want to visually inspect the belts for signs or wear. Any cracks or burns in belts are indications that they should be replaced immediately.
Inspect Lights
You’ll want to make sure that all of your lights and indicator bulbs are functional before heading out on a long trip. Not only can making sure all your lights work save you from getting a ticket, they will help to keep you safe.
More than likely, you aren’t going to know if all your bulbs are working from the driver’s seat, that’s why you have to get out and do a visual inspection. This is most easily done with 2 people: one in the driver’s seat, and another doing the inspection. The inspector should stand in front and in back of the vehicle and ask the driver to turn on all of the following lights:
- Headlights
- High beams
- Left and right turn signals
- Brake lights
- Check running lights
There is another type of light you’ll want to check as well before heading out on the road, and that’s the dashboard indicator lights. These handy little symbols in your dashboard can let you know if there is any issues with any of the systems in you car not mentioned in this list. The check engine light is one that is often ignored but should definitely be addressed before you head out on a road trip.
Check Your Brakes
Brakes are the #1 most important safety feature of any vehicle. You’ll want to make damn sure that these are working properly before you head out on any adventure. Brakes will usually let you know when they need attention by emitting an obnoxious squeaking or grinding sound. In most cases you’ll just need to replace the pads, however there are other indicators that your brakes may need servicing.
If you’re preparing for a long trip, it is best to let a professional mechanic give them and look and give you the all clear.
Aside from this basic vehicle safety checklist, you’ll want to be sure that you have a comprehensive safety kit in your car before heading out on any extended road trip, especially in the winter time. This will include emergency food, water, a flashlight, and extra clothes or blankets to keep warm. It’s also not a bad idea to keep a few tools, and vehicle essentials like an extra pint of oil and some coolant on hand just in case.
Stay safe this holiday season by making sure you inspect your vehicle thoroughly before setting out on any family adventures. As always, if you need help or have any questions, don’t hesitate to call Lakeside Mobile Mechanic in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.