Summer is the season for travel. However, something like a dead battery can put a damper on your trip. However, regular car maintenance can prevent unexpected breakdowns or costs. Therefore, this is a travel plan checklist for your car.
Make Sure You Have a Strong Battery
Your first step should be to check the battery in your vehicle. Have it inspected to ensure that its connection doesn’t have corrosion and is nice and tight. An auto parts store or mechanic can also test the charge of your battery and tell you if it’s time to get a new one or how much longer it should last. Remember that batteries last approximately four to five years, so be prepared to purchase a vehicle-specific battery, such as a battery for Mini Cooper, if your battery is close to four years old.
Get a Thorough Inspection
Before you take off on your trip, you should get an inspection. If you are mechanically inclined, you can do it yourself, but if not, have a mechanic check your belts and hoses for cracks, blistering or cuts. Make sure your hoses have tight seals and your belt is tightly installed and secure. Look for leaks and drips under your vehicle as well.
You can also have your transmission, radiator, air conditioning and steering systems inspected. Your brakes and tires should also be inspected. Listen for squealing and look for worn pads. Pay attention to the way your brakes feel. Are they spongy?
Incorrect tire pressure can impact your fuel efficiency, so make sure they are inflated according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Check the tire tread and wear patterns. You may need a tire rotation and alignment, so ask your mechanic. Have your air conditioning system inspected and charged.
Fluids and Filters
Your power steering, transmission and windshield washer fluids should be topped off. Your coolant should also be filled. Also, your engine, oil and internal filters should be changed to improve engine performance and acceleration.
Oil Change
Your oil should be changed every 3,700 to 7,000 miles. Your oil filter collects debris and dirt and keeps it out of your engine, but when it begins to get clogged, this material can collect in your engine, causing damage. New oil also protects your crankshaft and rods. It keeps your engine running smoothly and efficiently. Therefore, consider an oil change before leaving on your trip. If you don’t need one yet and won’t need one during your drive, at least make sure your oil is filled.
Fresh New Wiper Blades
Consider replacing your windshield wiper blades if you see streaks on your windshield or breaks, cracks or other damage on your wiper blades. Typically, you should replace your blades every six months, but choose blades made for your vehicle, e.g., Subaru wiper blade replacements.
Lights and Electronics
Finally, you should verify that your headlights, turn signals, emergency lights and brake lights are all working properly. You should also ensure that your headlights are angled properly so you get the best illumination on the road. You can have your mechanic check for any computer codes that signal things that may be wrong.
Start your trip off right by getting your vehicle ready. Then, all you have to do is plan your trip.