The Ultimate Road Trip Car Maintenance Checklist

Everybody likes a good road trip, yet if you fall short in preparing your vehicle for a road trip it can spell catastrophe. Don’t be deceived into thinking that your brand-new car doesn’t need to be evaluated, a quick mechanical check can mean the difference in a carefree drive or a roadside failure. We’ve created a quick list of important car maintenance examinations you should do prior to your next road trip.

Is My Car Ready For A Journey?

Just because your vehicle is new that does not suggest it’s ready for a long trip. If your automobile is overdue for an oil change, has a tire with an air leak, or has a burned-out taillight then you absolutely should get those items dealt with prior to dreaming of the open road. Furthermore, if you don’t already have an emergency kit in your automobile, you must get one before your next road trip. Despite all the trip planning on the planet, things can go wrong. A little bit of prevention can help greatly when presented with unanticipated automobile difficulties.

Safety Checklist for Road Trips

Okay, you’re ready to check your automobile with a fine-tooth comb, but where do you start? Your road trip checklist should concentrate on 3 major sections: Fluids, Wheels and Tires, and Maintenance. While not an extensive list, if you thoroughly check these Rosenbergs your possibility of an undisturbed road trip rises.

Get Your Fluids Checked

Engine Oil – As we stated above, you’ll want to see to it that the oil has been changed recently.
Transmission Fluid – Make certain to consult your owner’s manual to see how often it should be replaced. If it’s overdue, you’ll want to change it out.
Radiator fluid – Make sure that your antifreeze is full for optimal efficiency and examine your owner’s manual to see if it ought to be changed.
Brake Fluid – Having the ability to brake successfully can be the difference between an accident or not. If you are uncertain, have it checked
Wiper Fluid – If you’re going to be putting in some seat time you’re going to hit some insects or various other road debris. See to it your wiper fluid container is completely full to get the gunk off. Wiper fluid is pointless without excellent wipers, so change your wipers while you’re there.

Tires & Treads

Tire Tread – Ensure there are no bald spots and that you have a lot of tread left. Double-check for any type of punctures that require attention. If they can not be repaired, change them.
Air Pressure – Make certain that your tires are inflated to the appropriate pressure and that it’s equal in each tire.
Rotation – Ensure that your tires don’t need to be rotated. Tires that aren’t balanced/rotated correctly can wear unevenly and have a bothersome vibration.
Spare Tire – Whatever you check on your primary tires, do it for your spare as well.

Routine Service Items

Light Bulbs – Burned out headlights and taillamps can be a safety danger, so see to it that they work normally. While you are at it, inspect your turn indicator lights and parking lights. You can even upgrade to LED light bulbs for brighter light and lower power consumption
Air Filter – If you’re like the majority of us, your air filter needed changing years ago. It’s easy to do, isn’t really expensive, and can assist with better gas mileage.
Belts and Hoses – If you aren’t an auto tech, this could be a little intimidating but it can, in fact, be fairly straightforward. First thing is to look for splits in the hoses, then squeeze the tubes to see if they seem fragile. Hoses should feel rubbery, if they feel fragile or have splits you need to replace them. Search for leaks on your hoses, particularly where they attach to other parts. Lastly, check the belts to see to it that they aren’t loosely affixed or have missing notches. A busted belt and/or hose can rapidly wreck your road trip and your engine.
Battery – See to it that the battery terminals are not corroded and that the positive and negative terminals are tightened. If your vehicle starts slowly you might require a new battery.
Brakes – Being able to brake your car effectively is key in avoiding collisions. Changing your brake fluid, changing the brake pads, and even obtaining brand-new rotors might be needed to have a risk-free automobile for your road trip.

Test Drive Your Car Before the Road Trip

You understand your car better than anyone. Take it out for a fast spin to see if something feels off. This isn’t a pleasure cruise so shut off the radio and concentrate. Does your automobile pull to one side under heavy braking? Does your Air Conditioning blow cold air? If something feels a little off, you should have a certified technician take a look into it.

Schedule Your Vehicle’s Road Trip Maintenance Today

Schedule your car’s road trip maintenance service at Gillman Honda Fort Bend. We are your trusted source for all of your vehicle service needs in the Rosenberg area. Schedule an appointment in-person, online, or by phone today. Our certified specialists are ready to serve you!