Pre-Trip Car Check-Up

What to Check Before You Head Out on a Trip

When planning a trip it is easy to get caught up in planning the route, picking out what to bring, packing the bags and getting it all into the car. We’re always afraid we’ll forget something and often do forget one of the most important parts of planning a trip. Doing a pre-trip car check-up may make the difference between a fun, relaxing vacation and an expensive repair in an unfamiliar area.

Of course, keeping up with manufacturer recommended routine maintenance makes this much easier. And the easiest pre-trip car check-up is a trip to your mechanic. However, this can be a time-consuming and costly option. Another option would be to have an oil change at a reputable location. Most places will check and fill your fluid levels as well as your tire pressures. They will usually check your belts, too. Be sure to mention you are going on a trip and ask your service provider to be sure to check everything they usually do. The invoice typically shows the items they check, and the status of each check. Doing a pre-trip car check-up is a relatively easy thing to do at home. You’ll want to park your vehicle on a level surface several hours before you begin so the engine and its components will be cool and safe to work with. You’ll also want to assemble a few items, including a tire pressure gauge, a trash bag and paper towels. You’ll also want to check your owner’s manual to make sure your vehicle does not differ from the tips suggested here.

First and foremost, make this a safe task. Make sure your vehicle is in park and the parking brake is set. It is also wise to place a wheel chock behind a front tire and in front of a rear tire.