Most users will enjoy the next vacation after travel by carwhich remains one of the most frequent means of transport. And often, the destination is not always close to where each person lives, so before travelling It is advisable to check the status of the car.
This type of reviews should be done periodicallyat least once a year. There are still many drivers who do not follow this premise, so the trip could be the perfect excuse to do a checkupThere are drivers with enough knowledge to check these elements and prepare the car for a long trip, and others who do not have that confidence. Otherwise, you can always take the car to a garage.
Anyway, let’s make a review of the elements of the car that are most susceptible to problems. Those that must be checked before setting off if you want to cover a good number of kilometres with complete guarantee.
Tires
They are essential for the securityThey are the only part of the car that is in permanent contact with the road and must always be in optimal condition. By the way, even if you do few kilometres, did you know that tyres expire?
In addition, it is important to check your wear and check the pressure, an action that must be done when cold before setting off. Also the state of the flanksin case they get hit, since they are the most exposed part.
Brakes
Check the discs and pads. Very few drivers know how to check if their brakes are in good condition. Here are ten tips to keep your brakes in good condition, detect faults and drive without wearing them out too much.
Oil level
Check the date of the last change. Then check the oil level when the car is cold and level.
Other liquids
Check the brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, water, power steering fluid and coolant levels.
Lights
They are essential when driving, especially at night. Once you know the lights on your vehicle, you should also check that they work rightthe headlights must be clean and at the correct height. Make sure that you have spare lights and the necessary tools to replace them if necessary.
Battery
Check if the battery is in good condition This will help you avoid any unwanted setbacks. Some time ago we published five basic tips for buying a new car and it is also worth knowing how to jump-start a car, as sometimes you may find yourself in a bind.
Steering and suspension
Shock absorbers are very important and form part of the so-called safety triangle (along with tyres and brakes). Check that the shock absorbers are in good condition by following these guidelines.
Air filter
Safety does not depend on the air filter, but if it is dirty, fuel consumption will increase. It is also important to know all the filters that a car has in order to change them when necessary.
But a car is not just about mechanics, although ensuring that everything works correctly is the main preventive measure. You should also check that the car is not missing some elements. We had already published an article about things you should carry in the car, but this is what should never be missing:
- Spare wheel: in good condition, in case you need to replace a damaged one, if necessary. Of course, a jack and a spanner. Not all cars have them, some have a spare wheel or a puncture repair kit.
- Vest reflective: mandatory. Must be carried in a place accessible from the driver’s seat.
- Triangles approved emergency services.
- Documentation: all the vehicle’s “papers” and the insurance policy.
(NOTE: Article originally published on 11/07/2011, updated and completed)