Check Your Car Before a Long Journey
If you need to go on a long journey or are just going out for the day it is important that before setting off anywhere else in your car and driving around. There’s nothing worse than breaking down halfway there with no idea as to why this happened! Here at Vantage Auto Services, we recommend checking these 10 things before heading off!
1. Tyres
Tyres should be checked regularly to ensure that they are in the best condition. A puncture may release air slowly, which can lead to a blowout or other dangerous consequences if you’re not checking your tyres often enough. Look for cuts on the sidewalls and get regular top-ups from an auto shop as soon as possible!
Tyres need frequent checks because of how easily they could go flat at any time. Cuts along the sidewalls mean there is some slow leak going on inside those tyres – it’s really important to take care of them right away by getting regular top-ups done at a local garage before things turn sour with all sorts of problems including blown outs and accidents occurring due to lack of tyre pressure.
2. Toolkit
Make sure your toolkit is complete with basic tools for the car like wheel removal tools and a jack, at least. If you need to unlock any locking nuts on wheels, there should be the key or other unlocking equipment in your kit as well. Familiarise yourself with the jacking points of the vehicle so that if necessary you can safely lift it when doing work below ground level. Locking wheel nuts require a special key to remove, but they are less common on vehicles nowadays. Your basic toolkit should include all the tools you need for jacking up your car and changing its tyres: even though it’s not necessary every time, knowing how is helpful when you have no other choice!
3. Engine Oil
If your car has high oil consumption, then it can indicate problems with the engine. Check for changes in odour or consistency of fluid regularly and at service intervals to make sure things are running smoothly. The wrong type of oil could lead to severe consequences so be careful!
4. Water
Make sure to check the antifreeze levels before winter and change it if necessary. Especially, be careful when topping up during the summer months as you could cause damage in other areas of your car such as corrosion or freezing. It is important all year round for the best performance! Did you know that antifreeze also prevents the buildup of corrosion in the cooling system as well as stopping the coolant from freezing? This means that it is important all year round if you want to get the best performance out of your coolant.
5. Wipers
It might seem like a small thing to keep up with, but wiper blades are important for your safety and the safety of all passengers in your car. If you notice that they start smearing or not doing their job properly because they’re worn out, make sure you change them before it comes a time when visibility is impaired! It’s also crucial to check periodically (every few months) if there’s any wear and tear on the blade so as soon as one starts slowing down – replace it immediately; these things can be dangerous otherwise!
6. Screenwash
A good screenwash can clear oily grime and will freeze easier in winter. Water won’t do the trick! Be sure to use it throughout your summer as well, not just during cold months when you need an anti-smear formula for wipers that smudge windows. It’s a legal requirement too – make sure it works by checking regularly.
7. Windscreen
Your windscreen is the only thing between you and your environment while driving. Make sure to check it regularly, take care of any minor chips or cracks that may arise from stones being kicked up by cars in front of yours on the roadway, as they can grow into something more dangerous over time. If a crack has grown too large for repair don’t worry because there are experts who know how to work with glass so make an appointment today before anything permanent happens!
8. Lights
You should always make sure to check your lights, both on the front and back of your car. You should clean them often so that they’re in good working condition at all times. And if it’s dark outside you need to use those lights!
9. Bodywork
Extend the life of your car by dealing with bodywork damage as soon as possible. This will prevent rust from setting into any damaged areas and will help you avoid paying expensive repair bills. Be mindful when driving so that a moment of carelessness doesn’t lead to major repairs!
10. Power Steering
Use the correct type of fluid for your car and make sure to check it every month. You’ll want to have a look at the handbook to find out what kind you need, but be careful not to overlook this important task because no one wants their engine’s performance compromised by improper lubrication!
For Further Car Maintenance & Driving Tips, Contact Vantage Auto Services
Follow these simple safety precautions and you’ll be travelling as safe as possible in your car. Never take any unnecessary risks when driving, even to the store down the street! Make sure that your vehicle is well maintained before travelling anywhere; it could save a life or countless hours spent on repairs later. From all of us at Vantage Auto Services, we wish for you only good travels with no worries about upkeep or mechanical troubles along the way.
For further information regarding how you can keep your vehicle well maintained and taken care of, be sure to give our team a call today. From advice and information to fitting new tyres, completing your MOT or service, we will be happy to help. Simply call our car garage today for all your needs.
Looking for more of our helpful advice? Why not check out our guide on How to Maintain Your Car Air Conditioner! Or our 8 Ways to Maintain your Tyres!