Taking a road trip is a great way to explore the country and see new sights, but before you hit the open road, it’s important to make sure your car is in good working condition. A pre-trip car inspection will help ensure that your car is up for the journey ahead. Here’s a checklist of what to check before you hit the road.
Tires
One of the most important parts of your car to inspect before a road trip are the tires. Tires that are in poor condition can lead to blowouts, which can be dangerous (not to mention inconvenient). Inspect the tread depth of your tires and look for any signs of cracking or damage. If you’re not sure how to do this, most tire shops will be happy to do it for you. It’s also a good idea to check your tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended PSI.
Fluids
Another important thing to check before you embark on a road trip are your car’s fluids. This includes engine oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. Low levels of any of these fluids can lead to serious problems down the road. Check all fluid levels and top them off if necessary. Engine oil should be changed according to your car’s recommended schedule (usually every 5,000 miles or so).
Battery
If your car battery is more than three years old, it’s a good idea to have it tested before you hit the road. A dead battery can leave you stranded, so it’s best to be safe and get it checked out beforehand. We can will test your battery for free.
Lights
It’s also important to check all of your car’s lights before taking a long trip. This includes headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights. Not only is it illegal to drive with non-working lights, it’s also dangerous. Have someone help you test all of the lights while you stand outside of the car so you can see if they’re working properly.
Before setting out on your next road trip, make sure to let us give your car a thorough inspection. This will help ensure that your car is up for the journey ahead and reduce the risk of breakdowns or other problems. By following this simple checklist, you can rest assured that your car is ready for anything!