What should be paid attention to when driving a private car for long distances?

[StellaDella]

When driving a private car for long distances, the following points should be noted: 1. Tires: 1. Carefully inspect the appearance of each tire for any scratches. If it's just a rubber scratch, it won't affect usage, but if the inner tire cords are damaged, the tire must be replaced. 2. Thoroughly check the consistency of all four tires. Drive on a flat road without holding the steering wheel to see if the car moves straight; if not, get a four-wheel alignment done immediately. 3. Check the tread depth. Generally, when the tread depth is less than 2mm, the tire is not suitable for long-distance driving. 4. Measure tire pressure. The standard tire pressure is usually around 2.5 bar; avoid overinflation or underinflation. 5. Inspect the spare tire. Ensure the spare tire is in good condition and check if its pressure meets the standard. 2. Engine oil: Park the car on a flat surface, wait for the engine to cool, then pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to check. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick, not exceeding this range. Consider the climate of your destination. For example, if traveling to northeastern regions in winter, consider the viscosity of the engine oil and consult local service centers about whether a change is needed.

[HectorLynn]

The biggest worry on long-distance trips is the car breaking down halfway. I always do a comprehensive check a few days in advance to ensure the tire pressure is normal, the engine oil is sufficient, and the brake pads aren’t too worn. Otherwise, a flat tire or malfunction on the road could be a huge hassle. Fatigue driving can be deadly—I make it a habit to stop at a service area every two hours or so to rest, drink some water, and stretch a bit. Never push yourself too hard. Also, make sure to bring all necessary documents like your driver’s license and vehicle registration to avoid delays if the police check your car. Pack some water and snacks in the car to avoid driving hungry. Most importantly, maintain safety awareness—keep a steady speed and avoid reckless lane changes on the highway. A stable car condition is the foundation of safety. I always spend some time on these preparations before every trip to drive with peace of mind.

[DelElliott]

Driving long distances frequently, I pay more attention to my personal driving condition. Maintaining a steady speed, avoiding speeding or sudden acceleration/deceleration, and keeping a safe distance from the car ahead to prevent rear-end collisions are crucial. Long trips can be tiring, so I switch radio stations or play some light music every two hours to stay alert, but not too loud to distract my focus. Getting enough sleep before departure and keeping some snacks in the car for energy replenishment are also important. Checking basic car functions like lights and air conditioning efficiency, especially in summer to avoid heatstroke, is a must. With changing road conditions, I use navigation apps to plan routes and avoid congested areas, downloading maps in advance in case of signal loss. Safe arrival is the priority, and these small habits make the journey smoother.

[StDelaney]

When traveling long distances with children or the elderly, comfort preparations are essential. I installed soft pillows and thin blankets to make them feel more secure in the back seat. Snacks and drinks are fully stocked, such as dried fruits and bottled water, to avoid the hassle of expensive purchases on the road. Choose some relaxing music to play, not too loud to disturb rest. Adjust the air conditioning to a moderate temperature—neither too cold nor too hot. Check that the car seats are properly adjusted and the tires are not flat to avoid bumps. Schedule the trip without rushing, and take breaks to stretch legs. Bring emergency medicine for headaches or minor illnesses. The key to family trips is ensuring everyone is comfortable and happy.