Cars have come a long way since the late 20th century. These days, cars are becoming more and more automatic and are heading towards becoming gadgets on wheels. At the end of the day, however, the basic systems of a combustion engine in a car are by and large still the same. This means that with good car care, the life of your car can be extended and its durability guaranteed.
The great thing about modern day cars is that, you don’t have to be a specialist in order to do some basic maintenance that is necessary to keep your car in tip top condition. Making sure that you do regular engine checks as well as ensuring that the rest of the cars chassis and suspension system is performing as it should; will mean that your car will be safe for you and your family.
Don’t forget that keeping your car clean is part of good maintenance. Having the right auto detailing supplies, so that you can do a good detailing job on your car regularly, is important for the frame of your vehicle. If you are able to do a good maintenance job and you address any issues that may arise promptly, your car will hardly give you a problem even on a long road trip.
Below are some of the things that you should be aware of when checking out your car before or during a long road trip.
1. Do regular checks
It may seem daunting at times, but taking care of your car is sometimes as simple as popping up the hood and making sure that everything looks fine.
Water for the wipers and the engine coolant should be at the appropriate levels.
Make sure different oils and fluids (engine oil, brake fluid, steering oil and transmission oil) are at the right levels as well.
There should be no leaks under the car, especially where you park it.
Tires should have enough pressure.
Antifreeze and coolants have been adequately added.
Visible engine belts should not look worn out.
The battery terminals should be well connected and have no accumulations.
The battery should have enough battery fluid, if it isn’t a maintenance free battery.
There should be no excessive exhaust smoke when the engine is running.
There should be no warning signs in the cars dashboard.
2. Other replacement and maintenance
The other important components that you need to pay attention to in your car and that may need to be replaced on a regular basis include:
Windshield wipers
Oil and air filter
Spark plugs and cables
Headlight, brake, and turn signal lamps
Engine timing belt
If you regularly take your car for servicing or for a tune up after a specific number of miles as is prescribed by your mechanic, these should not be a problem. All that you will have to do is ensure that your long journey will fall well within the prescribed mileage before the car needs its next tune up or servicing.
