Traveling by car can be a lot of fun, especially if you go with the family. In this way, you will reach your desired destination much more easily and comfortably. You’ll also carry more stuff in the trunk of the vehicle, and you can create the route entirely to your liking. However, before you decide on a trip you should check if it is ready for a long trip. This includes a thorough inspection of it. To make sure he’s capable of covering the miles in certain weather conditions, you’ll need a plan. Do a few essential things before you go on a long journey.
Check the technical condition of the entire car
You should not service your car right before the trip, it should always be done at least two weeks before the trip, as you may need to take it in for service. It is important to evaluate the condition of the engine oil and filter, brake fluid, coolant, air conditioner, power steering fluid, windshield fluid, etc. For example, the oil should be changed every certain number of kilometers and there is a difference between older and newer cars.
However, you should not do this every year regardless of whether it is in use or not. Finally, check the manufacturer’s manual. Don’t forget to check the tire pressure, because anything that doesn’t go according to regulation affects safety and fuel consumption. You also need a spare tire if you get a flat tire on the way. Additionally, check the car’s warning lights and first aid kits.
Learn to change a tire
It’s not enough to carry a spare tire, you also need to know how to change it. First of all, you must not do this in a stop lane, as you will endanger your own safety. If you notice something is wrong with it, slow down and move off the road. After turning on the warning lights, turning off the engine, and setting everything else up, you’re ready to go. As you know, you don’t just change the tire but the whole wheel. Although it seems difficult to you now, it is actually very simple. Everyone has to get out of the car to keep the weight to a minimum. Prepare the spare part as well as the tool. Then, read the manual while changing the wheel.
For example, with steel rims, the cover is removed first. Once you have removed the wheel, lay it under the vehicle and start installing the new part in the same place. Since this is a so-called dirty job, it is advisable to have a pair of gloves in your car. It is important to raise the cars until the wheel is off the ground, then unscrew the bolts all the way and remove the wheel. Why should you put a spare tire under the car even if you have a jack? In case a wheel falls off the jack, there is a spare wheel right there.
Prepare the tools
Even though you have performed a technical inspection of it, there are many external factors that you cannot influence. Sometimes certain auto parts simply break down even when two weeks ago everything was fine. Then you will need a suitable tool that must be with you at all times.
Of course, you won’t pack an entire shelf, but you should have multi-mark wrenches or a multi-functional allen wrench. Also get a screwdriver, motorcycle pliers, ignition cables, duct tape, etc. It may seem like a lot of tools now, but it will save you a lot of time and money if you need them. You won’t have to call a tow truck and pay local auto mechanics.
Wash the car
If you don’t have enough time to wash it, at least do it with the windows. It is important to have a good view of the road in order to keep yourself and others safe. You should also replace your wiper blades, especially if you haven’t done so in a while. However, if you decide to clean the entire vehicle, do it right. Use products that are used only for these purposes, but there is a difference between them. More expensive shampoos usually contain wax, so don’t skimp on that. Thoroughly clean the larger dirt and grime, but don’t do it too aggressively. Next, you can begin to wet the car from the roof to the wheels and remove the second layer of dirt. Once you’ve done that, you can move on to the interior of the vehicle. Finally, wash the wheels.
Prepare a route plan
Once you have ensured the safety of the vehicle, set aside time for side plans. Focus on the journey itself. For example, check on the map how long it will take you to get to your destination. Also calculate how much fuel you will pour, where you will stop, because fuel is more expensive in some places. Explore the surrounding places so you don’t miss out on interesting adventures during your trip. Check travel conditions, roads, toll prices, parking and similar things. If you are traveling with children, keep their needs in mind.
For example, a younger child will get bored very quickly and you will have to entertain him. Tablets that are installed on the seat are a great option, because if you let them hold it in their hand, it will hurt their neck. Do not forget about chargers and other devices. Respect the traffic regulations of the places you pass through, and find out about them beforehand if you don’t know them. Rest time is equally important to the plan. It is preferable to take more frequent, shorter breaks. Drink coffee, take a walk or stay overnight in a motel if necessary.
Conclusion
Traveling in your own car can be an experience in itself. With the freedom that driving a car gives you, it is possible to include activities that you cannot do with a prearranged arrangement. However, it is very important that the car will not let you down. It is not a small journey and anything can happen to it during the journey. So, remember what steps you need to take and what a pre-trip inspection entails.
