Road trips are a great way to meet new people and explore new places. However, the budget and destinations aren’t the only things you have to keep in mind. You’d also need to make sure your vehicle is in top condition before you hit the road. Here are the things to in a car check before a roadtrip.
Check Fluid Levels
Fluids keep your car running in the most efficient manner. There are six important fluids in a car: brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, radiator coolant, transmission fluid, windshield washer fluid.
If the fluid levels are low, the car is susceptible to overheating after a few kilometres. If you keep driving in that condition, your car might break down before you reach the destination. You could also be doing a lot of damage to your car.
Radiator Fluid
The radiator fluid or coolant is responsible for cooling down the radiator as it works. In hot weather like that of the UAE, your car might run out of coolant too soon. If the coolant level is low, it may cause overheating in your car. Check the levels before you begin your trip and refill if required.
Brake Fluid
Brakes in a car work when the fluid inside them compels the brake pads to clamp onto the rotors and reduce the car’s speed. However, sometimes air bubbles or contaminants in the fluid hinder the brake function. In case you notice spongy pedals, it might be because of lower fluid levels. Brakes are the last thing you’d want to worry about on a long trip.
Power Steering Fluid
Power steering fluid can be contaminated after some time, affecting the performance of your steering wheel. A good idea is to get this fluid checked when you go for an oil change.
Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid keeps your car’s gear running smoothly. Any contamination in this fluid can make your drive uncomfortable. Automatic transmission fluids can last longer than manual transmission fluid, but a visit to the service centre before your trip is always a good idea.
Windshield Fluid
Dust and debris constantly pile up on windshield making it difficult to see, especially when driving in the desert. Windshield fluid is an effective ways to clean them without making a time-consuming pit stop. It helps you see the roads better and drive safer. Make sure your windshield fluids are filled up to optimal level before a long drive.
Check Engine Oil
Oil change is important for the proper functioning of an engine. It lubricates and reduces friction between parts like the crankshaft, pistons, and camshaft. It is recommended to change the oil after every 10,000 to 15,000 km. However, it does vary in different climate conditions. For instance, if your trip is around desert areas, you would require an oil change at around 5000 km due to excessive heat and dust. Use a dipstick to check its level and condition. If it is out of proper range, get it fixed before the trip.
Check Tyres
The tyres put up with the most as they are the only part in direct contact with the scorching road. They endure not just the heat from the sun but also a lot of heat and friction from the road. They are also critical for fuel efficiency, safety and comfort while travellling. Therefore, they must be in good shape and condition.
Tyre Treads
Treads give a lot away about your tyre’s condition and how long they will last. A good look for any signs of damage or wear can save you from a lot of trouble during the trip. Tyre treads shouldn’t be too worn out or uneven. You can use a coin to check depth of a tyre tread.
Air Pressure
Over or under-inflated tyres are more prone to wear unevenly, eventually reducing their lifespan. They are not only important for good grip and speed along the road, but they can also contribute to your fuel efficiency.
Most cars come with the recommended air pressure mentioned in the manual or on the driver’s door. Make sure you check your tyre pressure before leaving and keep checking during the trip. The pressure keep changes as the tyres log miles and the temperature fluctuates
General Maintenance
There are several components of a car that need to be checked before you leave.
Brake Pads
Brake pads are mandatory to check before travelling by the road as they offer friction to control the movement of a car. Make sure your brake pads are in good shape. If you already feel a lack of responsiveness or hear noises whenever you apply the brakes, they’re not.
Air Filters
Air filters prevent the entry of debris, dust, and bugs into the engine. With time, these filters get clogged and require replacement for the engine to work properly. Make sure to replace these filters every year or month if required. Excessive emission due to a bad air filter might get you fined in the UAE.
Light Bulbs
Driving with a burnt-out blinker, taillight or headlight can be extremely dangerous and can also get you fined on highways. Check if all the light bulbs are working fine before road trip and replace the tail lights or headlights that are burnt out. Driving with bad lights is also a traffic violation that can ruin your trip.
Air Conditioning
Your car AC might be working fine, but you have to make sure it is working good enough for the long journey you have planned in the Emirate. Driving in the heat for too long carries the risk of heatstroke. You will need an AC even in rainy or cold weather as it can keep the fog from forming on the windscreen. Get your AC checked for any kind of leaks or performance issues before embarking on the journey.
Essential Tools
It is very important to have a few essential tools such as flares, flashlights, jumper cables, jack and pump and tyre repair kit. A first aid kit is also among the list of one of the most essential things to check in the car before a road trip. Having the right tools in your car can help you get back on the road in case there is a minor setback.
Also, take a mental note of where you keep all the important things in your car. A quick cleaning and organizing can make your trip easy and comfortable. Keep the things you will be needing the most nearby and the rest of them can be stored in the trunk. Create a temporary trash bin to discard unnecessary things to avoid any mess during the trip.
Lastly, make sure that your car is in a condition to endure the long journey you have planned. You can also consider these car driving hacks to have a safe and enjoyable journey. If your current car isn’t in good enough condition, find a better one from these used cars available for sale in UAE that will make that trip more fun and comfortable.
That concludes our guide of things to check before travelling by your car. Turn your car trips into amazing experiences by pre-planning everything and following a checklist to stay away from any preventable problem.
For more information on car and automotive news, stay tuned to UAE’s top car blog.
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