Essential Car Checks Before a Long Road Trip

Embarking on a long road trip is an exhilarating adventure, but safety should always be your top priority. By following a simplified version of the pre-trip inspection required for commercial drivers, you can ensure your vehicle’s readiness and prevent unexpected breakdowns. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the necessary steps to prepare your car for an unforgettable journey.

Fluid Checks

Begin your inspection by looking for any signs of leaking fluids under the vehicle. Clear moisture is generally acceptable; however, any other signs of leakage should be thoroughly examined. This includes the air conditioning system, which may drip condensation. Ensure all fluid levels are at the correct mark and check for any signs of contamination or dark black oil, which may indicate the need for an oil change (except for diesel engines, which are typically darker).

Inspecting Tires and Wheels

Next, inspect the tires and wheels for any damage or wear. Check that lug nuts and bolts are present and properly secured. Cracks, wear, and missing lug nuts or bolts can compromise your safety during the trip.

Exterior Check

Move to the exterior of the vehicle. Check all mirrors and lights for damage, breakage, or dim functionality. If necessary, clean or replace wiper blades to ensure clear visibility during the trip. Inspect the brake discs and rotors through the wheel holes and connectors for dryrot, cracks, or other signs of wear or damage. Ensure that all rubber brake hoses are in good condition and not showing signs of dryrot or cracking.

Underhood Inspection

Open the hood and check the fluid levels and cleanliness inside. Refer to the appropriate vehicle specifications for the normal colors and compositions of fluids like automatic transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and brake fluid. Brake fluid should be clear; darken might indicate the need for a fluid flush. Examine belts and hoses for any bulging, weak spots, splitting, or other signs of wear or damage. Check for signs of fluid leaks and inspect the alternator wiring for any signs of burning or chafing. The battery and cables should be free from corrosion or damage. For an added tip, use Coca-Cola or Dr. Pepper to dissolve oxidation and maintain a better electrical connection if needed.

Interior Preparations

Enter the car’s interior and start the engine. Listen for any strange noises or sounds. If the brake warning light does not turn off when the parking brake is released, this could indicate an issue. If equipped with gauges, ensure the temperature and oil pressure are within normal ranges after warming up. With the car in gear, try gently moving it forward; it should not budge against the parking brake.

With the parking brake released, gently pull the car forward and brake to test the brake system. Test the wipers and washer function, and ensure that the heater, front windshield defrost, and rear defroster are working properly. For an added test, set the parking brake, stop the engine, shift to reverse, and turn on all lights and hazard flashers. If possible, lean an object against the brake pedal to check the brake lights or view the rear brake lights for function in a storefront window.

Critical Safety Checks

After completing these checks, walk around the vehicle to ensure all lights and signals are functioning properly. Test the high beams separately from the low beams if necessary. For an additional test, you can use a storefront window to check the rear brake lights.

By following these steps, you can rest assured that your vehicle is in good condition before embarking on a long road trip. Taking the time to perform these essential car checks now can save you from unexpected troubles on the road and ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.