What should be checked in the vehicle before a long-distance trip?
2 Answers
Before a long-distance trip, the following parts of the vehicle should be checked: 1. Check whether the oil level is within the normal range and whether it needs to be replaced, and whether the coolant level and quality are normal. 2. Check whether the tires are in good condition. 3. Check whether there are any faults in the electronic control system. 4. Check whether all the lights are functioning properly. 5. Check whether the onboard tools are complete.
I always think it's important to check the car before a long trip. First, the tires: the pressure should be moderate—too high risks a blowout, too low increases fuel consumption and wear. Use a tire pressure gauge to keep it at the recommended value. Also check the tread depth; if it's too thin, the grip is poor, making high-speed emergency braking dangerous. Then, check all the fluids: engine oil level shouldn’t be low—if it is, top it up or change it, as long trips put more strain on the engine; coolant should be full to avoid overheating and breakdowns; brake fluid level must be checked to ensure reliable braking; and fill up the windshield washer fluid so you’re not caught off guard in the rain. Lights must work: test the headlights, taillights, and turn signals—safety comes first when driving at night. Check the battery condition via the indicator eye; if it’s old, starting may be difficult. Make sure the wipers work properly—don’t wait for rain to find out they’re faulty. The spare tire should be properly inflated, and the jack and tools must be ready. I also clean out any clutter inside for comfort and adjust the air conditioning temperature. Update the navigation route in advance to avoid getting lost. These small tasks take less than half an hour but make thousands of kilometers much smoother.
