It is exciting to go on a long car journey, no matter what the reason might be behind it. Wherever you’re heading, the chance to get behind the wheel of your car for an extended period of time and let it have a good run is always good fun.
However, before you hit the road, it’s crucial to ensure your vehicle is in the best condition it can be in to give you a safe and comfortable trip. With that in mind, here are some things to check before setting off on your journey.
Fluid Levels
Your car contains a lot of different fluids, and they’re all worth checking before you head off on your next long journey (especially if you’ve not looked at them for a long time). The fluids we’re talking about include oil, coolant, brake fluid, windscreen washer fluid, and water. Any of those being low can be a problem, either because the car’s engine will get damaged or you won’t have perfect visibility.
If you notice any fluids are looking low, top them up before your trip so your car runs smoothly for the whole journey. To help make sure you never run low, once you’ve checked, add a reminder to your calendar to check again in three months. Do that every time you look and you’ll always be on top of things.
Tyres
Properly inflated tyres are crucial for vehicle safety, fuel efficiency, and, in some cases, driving legally, so you’ll want to check them too. Use a tyre pressure gauge to ensure all the tyres are inflated to the right level and recommended pressure (you’ll find the information in your car’s user manual or online).
While you’re there, check the tyres for any signs of wear and tear. Slow punctures can cause a big problem as they’re not noticeable initially, and balding tyres can be a safety hazard. If you need new tyres, you should ensure you go and get them fitted well ahead of your trip, or even arrange for a mobile tyre expert to come to you.
Lights And Indicators
Next, you’ll need to check that all your external lights, including your indicators on both sides, are working. Check the headlights, brake lights, and, as we’ve said, the indicators. If there’s a problem, don’t wait – get a new bulb or change the fuse right away (it’s better to be safe than sorry). This job might need two people (one to try the lights and one to watch to see if they work). So, ask a friend or family member to give you a hand rather than skipping the task altogether.
Proper lighting is essential for visibility, not just for you, but for other drivers too. Your headlights will obviously let you see where you’re going, but your other lights are for other road users. If they’re not working, it would be easy for someone to make a mistake or assumption – and that’s when accidents happen. A quick check and a fix if there’s an issue and you could literally save lives.
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