Going for long drives or road trips is a common practice nowadays. People want to escape from their hectic life. Their routine is so burdensome that they want some refreshment by going to spend some time in nature.
However, your whole trip can be spoiled if your commute has some mechanical issues. You will not find any mechanic hundreds of miles away from your home. So, it is recommended that you check your vehicle before you go on the road trip.
Here are some of the preparations for your vehicle for a road trip:
1. Check the Fluids of the Vehicle
There are several fluids used in a vehicle. Before your trip, you have to check them all and if you observe any issues. You should go for the replacement.
- Oil
- Radiator fluid
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Windshield fluid
These fluids are very crucial for a smooth drive. Oil will lubricate the vehicle parts, such as the piston, crankshaft, and camshaft. So it will reduce the friction and noise production. Moreover, to prevent the engine from heating up, you have to maintain the quantity of radiator fluid. Other fluids also play an essential role in safe and smooth driving.
2. Check the Pressure and Condition of the Tires
Tires affect the smoothness and efficiency of the vehicle. Before starting the journey, you should ensure that the pressure and condition of the tires are up to the mark. You should keep a pressure measuring gauge in your car to balance the pressure equally in all the tires. Otherwise, one side will wear out earlier.
Even during the road trip, you should rotate the tires. It is recommended to rotate the tires from right to left and front to back after every 6000 miles. However, it also depends upon the road condition.
Moreover, you can measure the tread. And if tires are worn too much, you should replace them with new tires before starting the journey. Generally, tires are replaced after every 25000 miles.
3. Check the General Parts
There are several parts of a vehicle that need proper maintenance. Otherwise, it can cause a problem during the journey. Especially if you have a Duramax engine in your truck, you should check Duramax diesel parts. These are very efficient and durable for long distances.
Some other parts need to be checked before road trips:
- The brake pad should not produce noise. It should be smooth. It should not be too loose.
- You have to check the air filters, and if they are clogged with dust, debris, or grease, you should clean them.
- Headlights, turn lights, blinkers, brake lights, and tail lights should be at the correct angle and intensity.
4. Keep a Small Toolkit
It is a precautionary measure to have a small toolkit for your vehicle. Add the following tools to your toolkit:
- Spanner
- Wrench
- Pliers
- Nose plier
- Long Wire
- Set of screwdrivers
This can help you when changing the tire or if there is any other issue with the engine.
Conclusion
You should always keep your vehicle clean and tidy. However, if it is possible for you, go for the suspension and alignment tests.