Getting Your Car Ready for a Road Trip

Summer is the most popular season for vacations, and many people opt for a road trip to see the natural wonders within their own country for that weeks away from work. These vacations are fun and exciting but car problems can quickly ruin and bring an end to any road trip. As road trippers pack for a trip, prepare their route, and book their hotels, it is important to remember to adequately prepare the vehicle for a road trip as well.

Interior Checks

Not much needs to be done to an interior of a vehicle before a road trip, but some things should still be examined. Drivers should ensure that:

All doors, locks, and windows are working properly.
All garbage should be cleaned out to increase space and reduce odours.
In addition, be sure to stock up on some necessities, such as a first aid kit, water, jumper cables, and more.

Exterior Checks

Before going on an upcoming road trip, drivers should check the exterior of their vehicle thoroughly. Ensure that:

All headlights, tail lights, blinkers, brake lights, and other exterior lights are working properly.
All tires have the right air pressure and have proper tread to weather all types of terrain—tires with minimal tread or cracks in rubber should be replaced.
In addition, windshield wipers should be tested and replaced if necessary—sudden downpours are dangerous when wipers don't clean off the rain correctly.

Under the Hood Checks

Perhaps the most important part of a pre-road trip checklist, a vehicle's engine and mechanical parts should be thoroughly examined before departure. Here's what needs to be checked under the hood: