The Ultimate Road Trip Car Maintenance Checklist

Road Trip Safety Checklist

Okay, you’re prepared to give your vehicle with a fine-tooth comb, but where do you begin? Your road trip checklist should concentrate on 3 primary areas: Fluids, Wheels and Tires, and Maintenance. While not an extensive list, if you thoroughly examine these areas your chances of a nonstop journey rises.

Get Your Fluids Checked

• Engine Oil – As we discussed above, you’ll want to make sure that the engine oil has been recently changed.
• Transmission Fluid – Be sure to consult your owner’s manual to see how often it should be replaced. If it’s overdue, you’ll want to change it out.
• Radiator fluid – Ensure that your antifreeze is full for optimum efficiency and examine your owner’s manual to see if it should be changed.
• Brake Fluid – Being able to stop efficiently can be the difference between a crash or not. If you are uncertain, have it inspected
• Wiper Fluid – If you’re going to be putting in some seat time you’re going to strike some insects or other road debris. Make sure your windshield wiper fluid container is topped off to get the gunk off. Wiper fluid is pointless without good wipers, so change your wipers while you’re at it.

Tires

• Tire Tread – Ensure there are no bald spots and that you have lots of tread left. Double-check for any cuts that require attention. If they can not be fixed, change them.
• Air Pressure – See to it that your tires are pumped up to the right pressure and that it’s equal in each tire.
• Rotation – See to it that your tires don’t need to be rotated. Tires that aren’t balanced/rotated properly can wear unevenly and have a bothersome vibration.
• Spare Tire – Whatever you check on your primary tires, do it for your spare tire as well.

General Service Items

• Light Bulbs – Worn out headlights and taillights can be a safety danger, so make certain they work correctly. While you are at it, check your directional signal lights and parking lights. You might want to also upgrade to LED bulbs for brighter light and reduced power usage
• Air Filter – If you resemble most of us, your air filter needed replacing years ago. It’s simple to do, isn’t really expensive, and can help with better gas mileage.
• Belts and Hoses – If you aren’t an auto tech, this may be a little intimidating however it can, in fact, be quite easy. First thing is to search for cracks in the hoses, then press the tubes to see if they seem breakable. Hoses should feel really rubbery, if they feel really weak or have cracks you need to change them. Look for leaks on your hoses, especially where they link to various other parts. Lastly, checks the belts to ensure they aren’t loosely attached or have missing notches. A busted belt and/or hose can swiftly destroy your road trip and your engine.
• Battery – Check to make certain the battery terminals are not rusted and that the +/- terminals are tight. If your automobile starts slowly you may require a new battery.
• Brakes – Having the ability to stop your vehicle capably is key in staying clear of collisions. Changing your brake fluid, replacing the brake pads, and obtaining brand-new brake rotors might be needed to have a safe car for your journey.

Before the Road Trip, Test Drive Your Car

You know your automobile better than anyone. Take it out for a fast drive to see if something feels off. This isn’t for fun so switch off the radio and concentrate. Does your car draw to one side under heavy braking? Does your AC blow cold? If something feels a little off, you should absolutely have a certified technician take a look at it.

Schedule Auto Road Trip Maintenance Today

Schedule your car road trip maintenance service at Lexus Southwest Houston. We are your source for all of your vehicle maintenance needs in the Houston area. Schedule an appointment online, in-person, or by phone today. Our factory-trained technicians are on hand to serve you!