How to Get Your Car or Truck Ready for a Road Trip

So you think you have everything planned for your long awaited road trip. Here are a few things you can add to your list to make sure you get to your destination. Having car problems are not what you had in mind while you are out driving down that lonesome highway. I have listed 5 important items you should have inspected before you leave. Here they are.


1. Have your car brakes inspected if you are planning on driving in the mountains.- Mountains and hilly terrain will cause your brakes and fluid to heat up quite a bit. For instance if your brakes are pulsating just a little before you leave, you can plan on your brake rotors to heat up and warp as you are driving through the mountains. So if you have time go out and drive your car around and test the brakes before you leave. If you feel the slightest problem starting to develop then have your brake system inspected by a reputable car repair shop.

2. Check all of your wiper blades and washer fluid. - There is nothing worse than driving into an unexpected rain storm and cant see where you are going. Not only is it hard but it is also very dangerous. The same goes for checking your washer fluid. After the rain you will be trying to clear the windshield from all of the dirt and mud.

3. Tire pressure is very important for your road handling and your gas mileage.- Go out and buy yourself a tire pressure gage from any parts store. Over inflated tires can get hot and cause your tires to blow at high speeds. Having one tire to full and one tire to low will throw your alignment off and cause steering and handling problems. Keep in mind that different climates will cause your tires to either increase or decrease in your tire pressures.

4. Check your car fluids and get them topped off. - Make sure you check your transmission fluid and your engine oil levels before you leave. Your antifreeze can also be checked at this time. Your over flow bottle should have a "full mark" labeled on the side of it. If you are having an oil or transmission fluid leakage problem take enough with you so you can top these off any time you become low.

5. Check your head lights and blinkers. - Have a helper go out side with you and have them test the head lights while you stand in front of the vehicle. This is also a good time to have them test your front blinkers. Do the same to your rear brake and back up lights. Not only are these dangerous but also can be against the law in some states if they are not working correctly.

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