What inspections are needed before long-distance driving

[LeSophie]

Before embarking on a long-distance drive, the following inspections should be performed: 1. Spare tire: Don't just check the four tires in use. During long-distance self-driving trips, various situations are inevitable. If one tire gets punctured, the spare tire can come in handy. Ensure the spare tire has normal tire pressure and no damage, guaranteeing it's ready for safe use at any time. 2. Lights: Night driving is unavoidable during long-distance self-driving trips, and more importantly, in case of encountering severe weather conditions like rain, snow, or heavy fog, the functionality of lights becomes particularly crucial. Check all lights including high beams, low beams, brake lights, front and rear fog lights, width indicators, and turn signals. If any light isn't working properly, repair or replace it immediately to ensure a smooth long-distance self-driving experience. 3. Battery: The car battery is often overlooked, yet its condition is vital. If there's an issue with the battery, leaving the car overnight during a long trip might result in failure to start the next day. Checking the battery's condition is relatively easy. Most batteries have an observation window; a green indicator means the battery is in good condition, while a black one indicates low charge or other problems, which should be addressed promptly.

[StSophie]

When preparing for a long-distance drive, I always prioritize tire inspection. Tire pressure must be adjusted according to the manual standards—too high or too low increases the risk of a blowout; severe wear makes high-speed driving unsafe, and the spare tire should also be fully inflated. The braking system cannot be ignored—the response when braking must be quick, otherwise, sharp turns or sudden stops can lead to serious accidents. All lights, including headlights and brake lights, must be fully functional—driving at night with dim lights is extremely dangerous, especially on national highways without streetlights. The windshield wipers should spray water clearly; poor visibility during summer rainstorms can be deadly. Engine oil and coolant levels should also be checked—if low, top them up immediately, as overheating and stalling midway can cause major trouble. I also recommend checking the battery charge—difficulty starting may indicate a problem—and confirming that the toolbox is fully equipped. Before setting off, fill up the fuel tank, bring a bottle of water and some snacks, and plan to take a break every 2 hours to prevent fatigue driving. These safety points make long-distance driving much more reassuring—small checks can prevent big troubles!

[SanCassidy]

Before a long-distance trip, I focus on maintenance checks. Open the hood and check the oil dipstick: the level should be between the marks; too low affects engine lifespan, so topping up with quality oil is crucial. Ensure the coolant level is sufficient to prevent overheating on long drives. Don’t overlook brake fluid—keep the system smooth. Check the battery’s charge indicator for normal function to avoid breakdowns mid-journey. Adjust tire pressure according to the manual; underinflation wastes fuel and accelerates wear, and the spare tire should also be properly inflated. Test the air conditioning’s cooling efficiency—long drives in heat can be unbearable. Ensure wipers and washer fluid work evenly. These simple, time-saving maintenance steps prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs. A clean fuel filter ensures stable acceleration and better fuel efficiency. Carry a first-aid kit and a phone charger for emergencies or traffic delays—proper maintenance makes the journey smoother.

[LaHaven]

Preparing for a long trip, I'm most concerned about emergency equipment. The spare tire must be fully inflated and its location familiar; the jack and tools should be complete and functional. The first aid kit should include bandages and medication for simple emergency treatment. Keep water and snacks in the car to cope with traffic jams. Ensure all lighting systems are working to provide safety warnings at night. Windshield wipers and washers should be clear for stable visibility in rainy conditions. Rearview mirrors should be clean and properly adjusted. These basic checks are quick and essential, ensuring full emergency preparedness for a worry-free journey.