When you are set for long-distance travel, it is essential to understand that your car must be in good condition. Also, just because you serviced the car before traveling doesn't mean you should not take precautions to protect the vehicle. Always ensure that you best protect your car when traveling long distances by following these six tips:
1. Check the Fluids
While it is convenient to always take your car for service before traveling a long distance, you should be keen to check the fluids in your radiator. Ensure you check the coolant, engine oil, and power steering.
If they are insufficient, you must ensure they are maintained at the recommended levels. Also, if your engine oil is excessively dark, you must remove the old oil and replace it with clean oil.
2. Prepare for Emergencies
Travelers should prepare themselves for emergencies and be ready when they may occur. Ensure you have a first-aid kit or a medical kit to deal with possible medical emergencies.
Depending on where you will be headed, you might need to stop and rest. Sometimes you might be too far from a motel to find accommodation. Since your car isn't an RV, you must bring tarps with you. The tarps will provide an excellent shed for you during a sunny day or a windy night.
3. Avoid Traffic
Try not to drive when traffic is heavy. It can be dangerous and can limit the use of your car brakes. Also, heavy traffic will be costly as your car will use more gas. You must also avoid traffic to avoid exhausting the engine before getting to the main highway for your trip.
4. Confirm All Door Locks Work
Open your car doors only when needed; otherwise, keep them locked. You can also check each door's locks. Ensure all locks are in working order before leaving for long-distance travel. You must also ensure all windows are in good condition before driving away.
5. Check Your Headlights
It would help if you checked the headlights before the car travels. Note that headlights can be broken and must be replaced if any cracks or marks are discovered. Also, ensure that your car's bulbs are in good condition as you will use them for driving during the night.
6. Check the Tires
Ensure that the tires are in perfect condition by checking their pressure levels. Such precaution should be doubled if you plan on traveling on rough terrains. It is because well-aired tires are crucial for smooth driving and good tire condition.
7. Give the Car a Power Wash
After the car is serviced and all other precautions have been taken, you should give your car a power wash to protect its bodywork. You must clean your car before the trip. The idea is to reduce the chance of debris or dust getting into the vehicle through an air conditioner or fans.
8. Avoid Traveling at Night
If you can avoid traveling at night when driving long distances. Traveling in the daytime is better for your car and your safety as a driver. In this case, try to avoid traveling at night by traveling when the weather favors you during the day.
9. Bring an Extra Wheel
You should bring a spare wheel along with you when traveling long distances. The extra wheel is necessary in case you get a flat tire. Also, be sure to learn how to replace a flat tire and the tools to use. You can learn this from a friend or your local dealership.
10. Take the Car for Service Before Traveling Long Distance
It is advisable to get your car serviced a day before traveling. Taking the car for service will ensure that the car has all the required fluids, tires, and accessories in place, ready for traveling. The idea is to keep your car serviced before you travel long distances to ensure you reach your destination in good working order.
Closing Thoughts
Also, be careful not to forget a fire extinguisher when traveling long distances. The extinguisher will be helpful in the case of a fire, which you may not anticipate before you kick off your trip. The fire extinguisher will keep you safe from a fire outbreak. Also, it won't cause any inconvenience as it can be stored in the vehicle without taking up much space. Always review these ten tips before setting out for that long road trip.
