Is Your Vehicle Ready For A Long Road Trip In Nova Scotia?
Is Your Vehicle Ready For A Long Road Trip In Nova Scotia?
Posted on July 11, 2024
Preparing Your Vehicle for a Road Trip
As the spring weather is on its way, many of us are looking forward to sunny road trips with family and friends. Road trips are a fantastic way to explore the beautiful outdoors and take part in an exciting adventure. Depending on the length of your road trip, it can be important to make sure your vehicle is in top operating shape before you set off. No one likes to be stuck on the side of the road, especially from a preventable issue.
Below, you can find a checklist that will help you prepare your vehicle for a long road trip. Don't forget at Truro Mitsubishi; we have a state-of-the-art service centre with factory-trained technicians that are ready to help you any way they can. Please schedule an appointment online and skip the line.
Road Trip Checklist
Check Your Tires
Make sure to have your tires inspected for tread wear and proper tire pressure. Check for any bulges or cracks because your tires are the only component on your vehicle that comes in contact with the road
Test Your Lights
Complete a walk-around of your vehicle to make sure all of your lights are working, from headlights, signal lights, backup lights, and brake lights.
Get a Tune-up For Your Car
If your vehicle has no visited a service centre in a long time, it may be worthwhile to have it inspected by a trained professional to make sure it is ready to go. The technician will take the time to inspect all the essential fluids and filters in your vehicle. They will also look at hoses and belts and determine if they need to be replaced.
Test Your Brakes
Getting going is usually never an issue; coming to a stop at a safe distance can be. Take your vehicle for a drive, listen for squeaking or scraping sounds, and smell for burning or odd odours. Your brakes need to be functioning properly before you set out. If you think there is an issue, have your brakes inspected. At Truro Mitsubishi's parts centre, we are proud to offer OEM brake pads and rotors. They offer the best performance and longevity.
Check Tire & Pressure
Check the four tires for gouges, bruises and sidewall bulges. Don't forget to check tire pressure before leaving. You should check the pressure when the car has cooled down. You can also take the vehicle to a Parts Centre to check whether the tires are correctly inflated.
Listen to & Feel Brakes
Take your vehicle for an inspection if you notice a grinding sound or feel a vibration the moment you apply brakes.
Secure & Test The Battery
Inspect the car battery to ensure the cables are correctly attached and secure the hold-down hardware. Check the battery cells for any cracks or leaks, and check that they're at a total operating charge before taking off on a long trip.
Top Off Engine Oil & Other Fluids
Make sure that your oil is in good condition and that it's at the correct level. Inspect other fluids such as brake fluid, power steering fluid, coolant, and windshield spray fluid.
Restore Wiper Blades & Refill Windshield Cleaner
Rubber wipes tend to degrade over time. It would be best if you replaced the blades when the wipers don't clear the windshield effectively. Additionally, top up the windshield washer with the appropriate fluid for the season.
Check Hoses & Belts
The rubber drive belts support several accessories like the air-cooling compressor, water pump, and alternator; thus, you need to check and replace the frayed ones, glazed and cracked.
Keep the AC Running Cool While You're On the Road
You need to test drive the vehicle with the air conditioner running. You should take the vehicle for a diagnosis in a Service Centre if you notice a decrease in the cooling capacity.
Replenish Emergency Kit Supplies
You need to have a well-stocked emergency kit for your vehicle. Include a battery jumper, flashlight, first aid supplies, reflectors, duct tapes, shop rags, good towels, drinking water, basic tool kit, rain poncho, and non-perishable snacks in the kit.
Plan For Vehicle Services
In addition to the items on this checklist, you should also prepare for any emergencies that might happen. You should know where to find a reliable auto repair shop and technician.
Pack Essentials
Packing essential equipment for your drive is important. Consider things like road maps, hotel information, snacks, beverages, a booster pack, spare phone charger, and an emergency roadside kit.
Clean your car
Clean your vehicle inside and out before your leave. No one likes a messy car, especially if you plan to be in for an extended period of time.
Contact Us
If you want to get the most out of your road trip, your vehicle must be in top shape, and these tips can help with that. Contact us to schedule a service appointment at Truro Mitsubishi before you hit the open road.
Contact Us