To
maintain the wiper blades of your car and ensure you have a safe ride, it's crucial to tune-up your vehicle before hitting the road for a long journey. The following article highlights the essential steps that every driver should take to ensure that their car remains in top condition throughout the trip.
Check your fluids and oils
Checking your car's fluids and oils is essential to keep the engine running smoothly. Start by checking the oil level and fill if necessary. Also, check the transmission fluid level, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. Ensure that all fluids are at the recommended levels, and fill as needed.
Inspect your tyres
Your tyres are the only part of the car that is in contact with the road. Before you hit the road, inspect your tyres for any signs of wear and tear. Check the pressure and ensure that it's in line with the manufacturer's specification. A low tyre pressure can affect the handling and fuel efficiency of your car. Consider getting new tyres if they are worn out, as it's a necessary step to avoid costly repairs later on.
Get your brakes checked
Brake failure is a common cause of accidents on the road. Before you embark on a road trip, ensure that your brakes are in good condition. Visit a professional mechanic for a brake inspection, and have them replaced if they are worn out. It's a necessary step to avoid costly repairs and ensure that you have optimal stopping power.
Take a look at your battery
A dead battery can leave you stranded on the roadside, which can cause inconvenience and delay on your trip. Take the following necessary steps to avoid such scenarios :
Test battery output
You can test the battery output using a voltmeter. A healthy battery should have a voltage output of around 12.6V. If the output is below 12V, consider replacing the battery.
Clean battery terminals
Dirt and corrosion on the battery terminals can cause connectivity issues, which can lead to battery failure. Clean the battery terminals using a wire brush and apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to prevent further corrosion.
Check battery age
The average lifespan of a car battery is around four to six years. If your battery is older than this, consider replacing it to avoid unexpected breakdowns on the road.
- Check your car's owner manual for any specific tune-up instructions.
- Consider getting a professional mechanic to tune-up your car to ensure a thorough inspection.
- In addition to the tune-up, ensure that your car's emergency kit is up to date, and you have a spare tyre, a jack, and jumper cables.
These five tune-up steps are necessary to give your car the best performance on the road. Regular maintenance ensures that your car remains in top condition, saves you money in the long run, and most importantly, keeps you safe. Remember to take the
necessary steps to avoid costly repairs, and most importantly, have a great trip!