What Should Be Checked Before Driving on the Highway?

[DeAnthony]

Checks to be performed before driving on the highway: 1. Vehicle exterior inspection, observe whether the vehicle's lights and various signal lights are working properly. On the highway, lights are crucial as they serve as a means of communication between vehicles on the road; 2. Five-fluid safety check, the five fluids refer to engine oil, transmission oil, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and fuel; 3. Four-pressure safety check, the four pressures refer to oil pressure, voltage, tire pressure, and air pressure; 4. Brake system inspection, when it is found that the thickness is close to or less than the minimum thickness specified by the manufacturer, it should be replaced immediately. While checking the brake pads, also inspect the wear of the brake discs or brake drums. If indentations appear on the contact surface, they should be resurfaced or turned to ensure the contact area with the brake pads and improve braking force.

[SamanthaLynn]

Every time before I hit the highway, I do a thorough inspection since I'm young with limited driving experience and always worry about breakdowns. First, I check the tire pressure to ensure it's within the normal range – too low can cause blowouts, rapid wear, and affect handling safety. Then, I check the engine oil level by opening the hood, pulling out the dipstick, wiping it clean, reinserting it, and checking again. If it's below the minimum mark, I top it up immediately to prevent engine overheating and damage. I also take a quick look at the coolant and brake fluid levels – if the bottles are transparent and I can't see the color or the fluid is low, I add some. Lighting checks are crucial too, making sure headlights, taillights, and turn signals are working properly, especially for night driving. I press the brake pedal a few times to feel if it's too soft or hard – any abnormality means it's time for maintenance, as braking is critical for safety. I confirm that the spare tire, jack, and tool kit are all in place to avoid being stranded without tools in case of a flat. I also pack an emergency kit, warning triangle, and make sure my phone is fully charged, just in case. These checks don't take much time but give me peace of mind on the highway, preventing breakdowns and travel delays.

[DiErin]

As a driver with years of experience on long-distance trips, I'm well-versed in the pre-highway checklist. Tire pressure and tread wear must be checked—unevenness increases risks at high speeds, so inflate to the manufacturer's recommended value. Engine oil level is crucial for lubrication; pop the hood and top up if below the mark. Coolant color and quantity matter—insufficient levels risk overheating and shorten engine life. Brake fluid should be even for responsive braking; inspect hoses for leaks. Test all lights to ensure clear night vision. I also check brake pad thickness and wiper effectiveness—essential for rain or fog on highways. Don’t forget to fill up fuel to avoid mid-journey stops. Ensure the spare tire is properly inflated and tools are complete; pack water and snacks for emergencies on long trips. Regular checks save repair costs and guarantee smooth, efficient travels.

[DeRyder]

Every time I take my family on a self-driving trip on the highway, I am extra cautious—safety first. I mainly check the tire pressure; if it's too low, it can cause bumps and make the kids uncomfortable, especially on long trips. I also do a simple check of fluid levels like engine oil and coolant; insufficient levels might lead to a breakdown, which is even more troublesome when traveling with kids. I ensure the brightness of the lights, especially the reverse lights and turn signals, to provide clear visibility at night and reduce accident risks. I test the brake system by pressing the pedal to confirm quick responsiveness, preventing sudden emergencies. I fill up the fuel tank to minimize stops and save time. Additionally, I carry a first aid kit and a warning triangle in case of accidents. Although these basic checks are simple, they ensure the family's safety, making the highway journey more comfortable and enjoyable without mid-trip anxiety affecting the itinerary.

[MacLeila]

Before my daily highway commute, I perform a quick and reliable check to save time and ensure efficiency. I use a tire pressure gauge to measure and maintain standard tire pressure for fuel economy and stability. For fluids like engine oil and coolant, I simply pop the hood to check levels and top up if needed—it takes no time. I test all lights by switching them on to ensure nighttime driving safety. A few presses of the brake pedal confirm normal firmness. With a full tank of fuel, I set off directly to avoid mid-journey delays. I also verify that the spare tire and tools are onboard for emergencies. The whole process takes just minutes but guarantees smooth and dependable highway driving, preventing unexpected breakdowns that could disrupt my schedule—efficiently reaching my destination with peace of mind and minimal effort.