What Should You Check Before a Long-Distance Highway Drive?

[StZoey]

Before a long-distance drive, you should check: engine oil, tires, dashboard warning lights, headlights, and coolant. Here are the details: 1. Engine Oil: Before a long trip, it is recommended to check the engine oil level to avoid insufficient oil, especially for engines prone to 'oil burning.' Use the dipstick to measure, ideally reaching the upper limit of the dipstick scale, and maintaining it between the middle and upper limits is optimal. 2. Tires: Tire inspection includes two aspects. One is tire pressure, which can be checked using a simple tire pressure gauge. Measure all four tires and the spare tire to ensure they are within the normal pressure range. The normal tire pressure value can be found in the manual or on the vehicle's label. 3. Dashboard Warning Lights: Normally, there should be no warning or fault lights on the dashboard after the engine starts. However, if a fault light remains on while driving, it indicates the vehicle needs immediate inspection. 4. Headlights: Lights to check include: headlights, parking lights, front and rear fog lights, all turn signals, brake lights, and interior map lights. 5. Coolant: The purpose of coolant is to reduce temperature. Proper use of coolant can prevent corrosion, cavitation leakage, radiator overheating, scale buildup, and freezing, ensuring the cooling system operates optimally and maintains the engine's normal working temperature.