What Needs to Be Checked Before a Long-Distance Car Trip?
3 Answers
Before a long-distance car trip, it is necessary to check various fluids, tires, all vehicle lights, and the battery. Checking various fluids: The main focus when checking fluids is the fluid level. Each fluid reservoir is marked with minimum and maximum levels, and as long as the fluid level is between these two marks, it is acceptable. It is recommended to top up the windshield washer fluid as well, since road conditions during the trip can be unpredictable, and the likelihood of using windshield washer fluid is high. As for whether various fluids need to be replaced, follow the replacement intervals specified in the maintenance manual. Most fluids are replaced every three years or 60,000 kilometers. If the replacement interval is approaching before the long trip, it may be a good idea to replace all the fluids. Checking the tires: There are two aspects to tire inspection: tire pressure and damage. Inflate the tires to the manufacturer's recommended standard tire pressure; there is no need to adjust for temperature variations. Check the tires for any damage, such as cuts or bulges on the sidewalls, inspecting both the inner and outer sides, as well as any punctures on the tread. Checking all vehicle lights: The main focus is to ensure all lights are functioning and that there are no burnt-out bulbs. During a long trip, it is inevitable to drive at night or in the evening, so good lighting is essential for safe driving. Both low beams and high beams should be working, as high beams are frequently used on highways. Brake lights can effectively prevent rear-end collisions; if they are not working, the likelihood of a rear-end collision increases significantly. Checking the battery: If the vehicle is less than two years old, there is no need to check the battery. However, if the vehicle is older than two years, it is advisable to check the battery regularly, especially before a long trip. Most car batteries last between 2 and 6 years. Using a battery tester provides the most accurate assessment, but you can also pay attention to signs of a weak start, which often indicates that the battery needs replacement.
Every time I take my family on a long-distance trip, I first check the tire pressure and wear conditions. Uneven pressure on the highway can easily lead to a blowout, which is a major hazard. Engine oil and coolant must be sufficient to avoid overheating and stopping. Test the sensitivity of the braking system to ensure a stable stop. Turn on all lights to confirm brightness, and make sure the wipers are clear to prevent rain and fog. The spare tire should be fully inflated with tools ready, and the warning triangle should be carried along. Fill up the fuel tank to avoid the hassle of running out of gas midway. Also, give the engine a quick overall check for any leaks or abnormal noises. Ensure the air conditioning and ventilation are working properly for a more comfortable journey. Finally, remind the whole family to buckle up—safety first for a pleasant trip. Remember to plan the route in advance to avoid peak traffic congestion areas.
Car repair is my hobby. Before long-distance trips, I habitually check: tire wear depth and balanced tire pressure to avoid high-speed imbalance; pull out the engine oil dipstick to check the level, replace if the filter is dirty; feel the brake pedal pressure, ensure the fluid level is in the middle; clean battery contacts and test voltage to prevent starting difficulties; test high and low beams, confirm fog lights; test windshield washer spray, crucial for visibility; check spare tire and toolkit, tighten loose screws; ensure fuel gauge shows enough, then set off. Inspect the chassis for any lodged debris, clean radiator fins for proper ventilation to prevent engine overheating. Loud noises on the highway are most often caused by abnormal tire conditions.
