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Preparing Your Vehicle for a Road Trip
So, you’re hitting the open road for a trip with family or friends in spring or summer? Like most Australians, now is a good time to begin preparations. While a road trip can bring so much joy in sights, sounds, food and good company, they can also be an absolute nightmare if the right precautions were not taken and your car is fully prepared for the k’s you're about to take on.
The best place to start is at one of our 5 stores across Melbourne. Blackburn, Prahran, Preston, Collingwood and Balwyn.
In this article, we look at the important steps to take before going on a long or even short road trip with family or friends.
Note, these checks should be performed regularly throughout the year to keep your car running at its best.
So, let’s begin under the hood!
Engine Oils and Fluids
Take a look around the engine bay. If visible, your radiator belts, timing belts and all hoses should be clear of erosion and in good condition. Make sure your car is not running or hot and remove the radiator cap. Check the level and top up if required.
It’s always good to start with coolant and if you need to, top up on the road with water.
Your oil level can be checked by using the dipstick. It’s good to have some paper towel in the car so you don’t ruin your favourite sweater. Clean the dipstick and place back into the engine block and retrieve again for a more accurate reading.
Make sure all your fluids and oil is up to the required levels. If the markers are not visible then resort to your owner’s manual. Some modern engines may be enclosed with housing so it might be best to drop into your local Donnellans workshop for a general service or checkup. We can tailor a service package for your specific needs and vehicle.
Check your battery for terminal corrosion or visible signs of damage and wear. Simply getting your battery tested at your Donnellans can save you all sorts of dramas on your trip.
Always carry extra engine oil, coolant and power steering fluid. They can be easily stowed away and will save you the time and money in the long run.
Tyres
Your tyres are a major part of planning any road trip. If your tyres are in good condition, they will get you there and home again in one piece. There are a few things to look for when preparing for your trip but if unsure its best to visit a Donnellans Tyre store for a check.
Inflation
It’s a good idea to understand over and under inflation. Simply read the markings on your tyres sidewall for inflation readings. A good idea would be to buy a digital gauge to check your pressures while out on the road.
Check for any signs of damage for instance, bulging and uneven wear and tear. Look for any nails or shape objects that may be embedded in your tyres. Look for cuts and damage to the side wall and make sure the valve is clean from erosion and dirt and is still working correctly.
Tread depth
Tread depth is vital on any road trip. You might have sufficient depth at the time of departure but will you after you have travelled 10,000km?
Know that you’ll always do more KM than planned, it just happens!
Check your spare tyre
This can often be over looked so remove the spare tyre and make sure its inflated correctly and is in good condition. Check the date of manufacture and that it’s in date. Check that you have all the parts to your car jack and other tools for removing and replacing your wheels.
Wheels
Your wheels should be free of damage and secured tightly before departing. Check your wheel nuts and tighten any if needed.
There are some other great tips to make sure your trip goes as smoothly as planned. Always carry a first aid kit in your car, maps and other navigation tools are great too. Download any maps or take screen shots of where you are going if its off the main roads.
Hand your planned itinerary to a family member not going with you and regularly check in while in phone range.
Take the time to check the above thoroughly. Create a check list and tick off as you go. The above tips could save you time and money but most importantly the lives of you and your passengers as well as other motorists out on trips of their own.
Above all, book into Donnellans today to have one of our expert technicians service your car. From mechanical, tyres, wheel and advice you can’t go past the team at Donnellans.
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