How To Prepare Your Car For A Trip

Check your tires. An under inflated tire not only reduces the life of your tires, but can cause gas mileage of your car falling as much as 15%! An inspection will also tell you how much tread life you have in your tires, as well as alerting you to any uneven tire wear, which could indicate an alignment problem. An inspection can also alert you to any visible damage to the tires, which can worsen under intense heat.

Hoses and belts should be inspected. The modern cars are equipped with the serpentine belt which works on all the accessories. Therefore if the belt breaks you will lose control of your car. You should find a qualified auto technician to check the condition of the belts, clamps, and hoses, but being proactive and looking for signs of wear, cracks or wear. As belts, radiator and heater hoses are also made of rubber, you should have regularly inspected all the tubes for wear, including cracks and soft hair, bulging spots could prevent impending rupture.  

 Of course, check of oil is necessary. While this may well be the least expensive of all routine maintenance on your vehicle, its importance is critical. Most manufacturers require the oil changed every 3000-5000 miles. Most good shops will perform a safety inspection bumper-to-bumper free in your vehicle while making the lubricant oil and filter service. A safety inspection may include everything from checking fluid levels, conditions of your wiper belts and hoses, brakes, tires, battery and cables, shocks, the operations of a washing machine, light operations, air filter, water pump, radiator, etc.

Prepare for emergencies. Breaking the heat can be lethal. Carry some basic tools and if you live in a warm climate keep water with you. Also consider buying a first aid kit, flares and flashlight. Prevention will take a little long way making your trip safe and enjoyable.