How to Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip

Are you planning to take the family on the road this summer? Make sure your trip goes smoothly by giving your car a good once-over before you pull out of the driveway. These tips will only take a few minutes of your time but they can make the difference between enjoyable sight-seeing or a long, dusty walk to the nearest service station.

1. Stay Up to Date with Regular Maintenance

If you get your car serviced every few months, you’re ahead of the game. Regular oil changes and check-ups can detect small, low-cost problems before they become big, expensive problems. If your car hasn’t been serviced in several months, it’s probably time to let a trustworthy mechanic take a look at it.

2. Check Tires

Checking the tire pressure will save you money as well as grief–under-inflated tires decrease gas mileage. But don’t stop there. Take a look at the general condition of your tires. If your tires are worn down, consider replacing them before leaving on your vacation.

3. Check Fluid Levels

Fluids include motor oil, coolant mixture, windshield washer, transmission fluid, and brake fluid. In addition to topping off fluids before you go, it’s usually a good idea to bring along an extra container of motor oil and windshield washer.

4. Test Your Wipers

Check your windshield wipers to make sure they make smooth contact with the windshield through their entire sweeping motion. If they are worn down, ragged, or rough, replace them. It’s a low cost fix that can save you a lot of anxiety if you run into bad weather on your trip.

5. Check Your Belts

Depending on the car, belts can be found in the fan, alternator, power steering, water pump, and air conditioner. Check the belts for appropriate tension (belts should not be too loose or too tight) and for any worn or frayed places.

6. Test Your Headlights

Make sure that both headlights work in the low beam and high beam settings. While you’re thinking about it, check your tail lights as well and make sure both turn signals are working.

7. Consider Getting Roadside Assistance

Many insurance companies offer roadside assistance plans so that if your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, you can get a tow to the nearest service station. This type of plan is especially helpful if you’re traveling alone or with small children.

8. Pack an Emergency Travel Kit

In spite of your best preparations, it’s possible you will experience car trouble on your travels. Be ready for it by bringing along an emergency kit which includes a standard tool kit, first aid supplies, water, blankets, a flashlight (with extra batteries), flares, jumper cables, paper towels, a tire gauge, and a spare tire.