Long road trips are good for the soul. However, as much as they can help you unwind, they can also take a toll on your vehicle’s performance. The added stress brought by the journey will cause your car to deteriorate faster regardless of whether it’s a sports car or a pickup truck.
The good news is that you can still enjoy the best benefits of a long road trip without causing your car to deteriorate faster. Preparation is the key, so here are a few ways to make sure your vehicle survives your next epic adventure.
1. Check your fluid levels
Like a body that’s kept in good condition, your vehicle requires a healthy dose of fluids to remain operable. If you’re going on a long road trip anytime soon, make sure to check the coolant, brake, and transmission fluids. Don’t overlook your power steering fluid if your vehicle has such a feature. Oil levels should also be checked. You may have to change your engine oil if your vehicle has already traversed 5,000 miles or more.
2. Look for cracks on your windshield
Your windshield might look fine from the outset, but the tiny cracks that remain could affect the overall strength of the glass. A mixture of intense heat and cold will only make things worse for your windshield, so it’s always best to inspect the surface of anything that will cause the glass to falter.
There are DIY kits you can use to seal off hairline cracks, but major damages are beyond saving. Your best bet is to reach out to a glass repair service like Van Isle Glass if you live in British Columbia. Chances are, you could end up paying for a new windshield, but at least you can drive safely.
3. Keep your tires in pristine condition
Even if the journey involves miles of driving along asphalt highways, friction, and the elements could damage your tires. Not all tires work well for long-distance driving. The first thing you will need to check is the pressure. Too much will cause your tires to fail sooner than expected. Underinflated tires, on the other hand, could affect your vehicle’s stopping pour and lead to steering delays. It also matters a lot to choose all-season tires designed specifically to withstand any weather and the amount of time you drive.
4. Make sure your lights are working
Traveling long distances will find you driving through the dead of night. But hazards are everywhere at this time of day. Aside from obstacles on the road itself, you also need to watch out for animal crossings and sharp turns. Your headlights will save you from disaster, so make sure they’re working properly before taking your car out for a long drive. If it’s malfunctioning, you may have a problem with your electrical system.
Endnote
Never start a road trip if your car isn’t going to last more than a day out in the open. Use these tips and enjoy the thrill of the ride without fear.
