A road trip is always fun especially with friends and family. But you must ensure that no hassle happens on the road that could ruin the whole thing. And that starts with the car you use. You need to make sure that it won’t conk out on you while you’re on the expressway or along a barren road.
To avoid that, it’s always recommended to have your car properly inspected before going on a long ride, preferably by a mechanic. But if your wallet couldn’t afford it, you can do it yourself. Here’s a list of what you need to check in your car to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Engine Oil and Other Fluids
Check the oil level to see if it's within the recommended operating range. Refill if necessary. Examine the oil’s viscosity as well and refer to your car's manual for information to know what’s ideal when driving in extremely hot or cold temperature. Also, see if its color has turned dark, which means you’d have to change oil.
The same applies to the fluid levels in the automatic transmission and power steering. These liquids should be pink and free of foreign matter. If they have a burnt smell, they should be replaced.
Air Filter and Cooling System
For the engine to operate most efficiently, there must be an adequate supply of clean air. So make sure your air filters are clean. To keep the air inside the car fresh as you travel, check the cabin filter as well. The full line on the side of the reservoir should be reached by the coolant that is within the operational range. If not, refill with a 50/50 mixture of pure coolant and distilled water. However, some coolants are already mixed, so water may not be necessary.
Don't forget to look for leaks in the radiator and hoses. Verify that the radiator fan is operating correctly and that the radiator cap is closed tightly.. Do not open the radiator if the cap is warm.
Car Battery
Before hitting the road, make sure your car battery has a strong charge, clear terminals, and a proper cable-to-terminal connection. Batteries for cars usually last three to four years. Even if you don't drive often, your car's battery could still become discharged. If you don't take action to protect the battery's longevity, it will degrade faster.
You can use a smart charger or trickle charger to recharge your car battery should you find it dead. Disconnect the negative terminal first, then the positive terminal if you won’t be using your car for a long time. Remember to put gloves on for protection and do not simultaneously touch the two terminals.
Hydraulic Fluid Reservoir
You’ll find the brake fluid reservoir on the driver's side of the car. Make sure you don’t exceed the maximum level. The fluid’s color must be transparent. If not, you need to replace it. Every two years or 40,000 kilometers, whichever comes first, is the suggested timetable.
Engine Belts, Hoses, and Noises
While the engine is off and cooling, inspect the belts and hoses. Use the tug test to determine whether everything is firmly connected to where it should be. Keep an eye out for irregularities such as leaks, abrasions, and cracks.
When the engine’s running, listen for ticks, rattles, pings, squeaks, and other odd noises. Those usually indicate a problem with the car. You should have your car evaluated as soon as you can if the engine is making strange noises. The same holds true for louder exhaust noises.
Signs of Leakage
Before you leave your parking space, check the ground beneath the car to see if there are any leakage signs. Don't forget to look underneath the hood, close to the fluid reservoirs, to make sure you don't miss any potential leaks.
Tire Condition
Maintain the tire pressure recommendations provided by the automaker. Usually, they are inscribed on the driver-side door jamb. Read the automobile manual if you can't see the print any more.
Vehicle Lights and Signals
You would need to have another person check if all of the car's lights operate properly when they are turned on since you must be inside the car for this. Step on the brake a few times and confirm if the brake lights work.
Start the engine and see if all the caution lights in the dashboard briefly flash. If one doesn’t or stays on after a few seconds, there’s probably an issue with the electrical system or a particular part of the car. Use the turn-signal stick in both directions to determine if the corresponding lights at the rear of the car flashes on and off.
Don't take a chance when lights and signals are malfunctioning as you can get in trouble. Have them fixed right away.
Wheel Alignment
Examine the tread for uneven wear. This usually indicates a problem with the wheel alignment. Other possible causes include over- or under-inflation and a worn-out wheel bearing.
Emergency Supplies
If your spare tire is underinflated, it won't be useful when the need arises. Make sure it's always in good shape and ready for use. Use a tire gauge to ensure that the tires are inflated to the proper pressure. In the event of an emergency repair, having the essentials, such as flashlights, screwdrivers, and a car jump starter, among others, should help tremendously.
Vehicle Body Damage
Look for scrapes and dents. Even while these are typical aesthetic concerns, they could also be a sign of more serious issues. It's possible that a bumper is going to come off or that the roof already has a hole in it, both of which can pose risks especially in the middle of a long drive.
Windshield and Wipers
Search for any irregularities that could impair vision, such as cracks, scratches, and other flaws. Driving puts strain on your windshield. The glass can break while you're driving if there is a crack there that you are unaware of.
Check to see that the wiper blades are operating correctly, leaving no streaks or gaps in their path. Wiper controls should also cause them to respond effectively.
Clutch and Braking System
If you have a manual-transmission car, the clutch shouldn't have a soft or hard feel. It should move when you step on it and give way to your foot in the proper manner. Also, there shouldn't be any odd noises made when the clutch system of the car is engaged.
If you suspect a transmission issue, such as when you hear strange noises when shifting speeds, take your automobile to a repair shop. Also, remember that your car still has a transmission gear that needs regular maintenance even if you drive an automatic.
Pay attention to the sound the brake pedal makes as you press it. Grinding sounds made by metal on metal indicate worn-out brake pads. Be cautious if the pedal trembles as you press it. There must be a leak or air in the braking system if the pedal feels mushy. This is a sign that the brakes require a checkup immediately.
Seat Belts and Mirrors
Test the seat belts' tightness. They must be fully secured when buckled in and latched. Seat belts help save 15,000 lives annually.
Both your side and rearview mirrors need to be clean and damage-free. They ought to be positioned so that you can see the road clearly from behind.
Air Conditioning and Ventilation
Ensure that the fan, compressor, and other components are in perfect operating order to keep you comfortable while driving in sweltering heat. We highly discourage you from frequently adjusting the thermostat while you are driving.
Gas Tank Level
A full gas tank is essential, especially for extended travels. Consider how inconvenient it would be if you ran out of gas when caught in traffic or driving down a route with no gas stations in sight. Keeping your gas tank full also minimizes moisture buildup, which can cause difficulties with the fuel delivery system.
Additionally, it prevents dangerous levels of gasoline fumes from accumulating. So, before you go for a drive, make sure to check your fuel level with the fuel gauge.
Final Thoughts
Making sure your car is in great condition should always be your main priority whenever you go for a drive. By following this car inspection checklist, you can embark on your road trip with confidence, knowing that you've taken the necessary steps to keep your journey smooth and enjoyable.
Should you be driving a rented car, make sure it’s from a reputable company that ensures their rentals are in tip-top shape.
For more automobile guides and travel tips, bookmark our page. And for a quick and easy car rental process, download the DOON app.
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