Preparing Your Vehicle For A Cross Country Trip
Date Added: November 12, 2007 12:32:04 AM
Check the battery. If you notice that your car has been turning over slower, or if your battery is more than three years old, it is time to get a new one installed. The last thing that you want is to end up stranded in an unfamiliar area with a dead battery.
When you are preparing to travel cross country on a vacation or for other reasons, it is very important to make sure your car is also ready for the trip. There are several items that should be checked prior to any long trip which will be addressed in this article. Make sure you know what they are to help avoid problems with your car during your travels.
Check all your car lights. Start by cleaning all the dirt off your taillights, brake and headlights. Replace any dead bulbs with new ones. You will be traveling through states where police are watching for out-of-state travelers with cars that are not in proper working order.
Check your tires. Tires have a higher risk for blow outs when they are not inflated properly. Make sure they are ready for the extended wear of a longer trip.
Get your oil changed. To make sure your engine runs smoothly get fresh oil prior to leaving.
Check the windshield wipers. If they are getting older or leave streaks, it could mean trouble when it rains on a dark and unfamiliar road. Keep your vision as clear as possible while driving.
Top off your cars fluids. Bring some extra coolant and oil in the car should the levels come down over the course of the trip.
Prior to the trip, watch the temperature gauge. The motor heating up too rapidly can be a sign it will overheat during a trip.
Check the belts and hoses. They need to be replaced if you see cracks or chips so they don’t give you any trouble.
Visit your local mechanic for an inspection. It is important to know that your car is ready for the trip. Your mechanic has the tools and instruments to properly inspect many of the parts that you cannot examine yourself.
One last bit of security is to get a normal size spare tire, not the small donut. Temporary spares are only designed for use over short distances. If you do get a flat in unfamiliar territory, it could take a while to reach a mechanic. So having a spare that matches the normal tires on your car is important.
