So, you’re getting ready for a road trip? That’s part of the American experience, and it can be a lot of fun whether you’re going on a family vacation or just hitting the road on your own to see the countryside. The worst situation, however, is when something goes wrong with your vehicle because you didn’t make it road-trip-ready. Here are some important tips and tricks to keep in mind and steps to take before your next road trip to ensure that your vehicle is ready to hit the highways and byways.
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Check Your Fluids
Just like your body, your car needs the right balance of fluids to work right. Consider your car’s fluids as water and blood for your vehicle — you need the right pressure and balance to keep things working the way they should. Get an oil change, especially if you’re driving over 1,000 miles or more. Check your coolant and transmission fluid levels. Make sure you have enough windshield wiper fluid. Be sure your brake fluid is at the proper level. Most of these checks can be done with a routine inspection at your local dealership.
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Check Your Tires
Your tires are what enable you to keep control of your car. Whether you’re driving on smooth pavement, gravel-strewn roads, in the rain or snow, or in any other road conditions, you need the proper traction to stay in control. Check the air pressure in your tires, and make sure they’ve been rotated recently. Above all, be sure they have proper tread and not too much wear. Though the “penny test” — inserting a penny and checking for old Abe’s head — can be a good benchmark, a professional checkup is always best.
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Wiper Blades
When was the last time you had your windshield wiper blades changed? When you turn them on, do they properly remove rain, or do they leave smears and streaks? The last thing you want is to be caught in a storm with bad wiper blades. They don’t cost that much, and the peace of mind you get from fresh wipers is worth it.
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Check Your Battery
A dead battery will stop you cold. Check your battery terminals for corrosion, and clean them if necessary. Your local dealership can also test your battery’s charge to be sure you don’t need a replacement.
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Create a Car Emergency Kit
Creating an emergency kit can be one of the most important preparatory steps you take. You never know when disaster is going to strike and you’ll need supplies. Prepare for an unforeseen breakdown or inclement weather event with a car emergency kit.
A complete kit should include a phone charger, screwdrivers, pliers, a socket set, a flashlight, a warning light, a hazard triangle, flares, a tire-changing kit, jumper cables or a jump-starter, a reflective vest, a fire extinguisher, a thermal blanket, a change of clothes, gloves, a hat, and nonperishable food and water. These are the things that can keep you going in an emergency situation.
If you’re thinking about taking a road trip, your local Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM dealer can make sure you’re in shape. Stop in or give us a call to schedule a multi-point checkup and inspection today.
Image via Pixabay | CC 0 | Cropped from original