The Ultimate Road Trip Automotive Maintenance Checklist

Road Trip Safety Checklist

Ok, you are prepared to check your automobile with a fine-tooth comb, but where do you begin? Your road trip checklist should concentrate on 3 major areas: Fluids, Wheels and Tires, and Maintenance. While not an extensive list, if you thoroughly examine these locations your chances of a nonstop road trip get better.

Get Your Fluids Checked

• Oil – As we mentioned above, you’ll need to see to it that the oil has been changed recently.
• Transmission Fluid – Make sure to consult your owner’s manual to see the intervals at which to have it changed. If it’s past due, you’ll need to change it.
• Radiator fluid – Make certain that your antifreeze is completely full for maximum efficiency and inspect your owner’s manual to see if it needs to be changed.
• Brake Fluid – Having the ability to stop properly can be the difference between an accident or not. If you are unsure, get it checked
• Wiper Fluid – If you’re likely to be putting in some seat time you’re going to hit some insects or various other road debris. Make sure your wiper fluid container is completely full to get the crud off. Wiper fluid is pointless without great wipers, so change your wipers while you’re at it.

Tire Check

• Tread – Ensure there are no bald spots and that you have lots of tire tread left. Double-check for any punctures that require attention. If they can not be fixed, replace them.
• Air Pressure – Make certain that your tires are pumped up to the correct pressure and that they all have equal pressure 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 frustrating vibration.
• Spare Tire – Whatever you examine on your primary tires, do it for your spare tire also.

Routine Maintenance Items

• Light Bulbs – Worn out headlamps and taillamps can be a safety danger, so ensure they work correctly. While you are at it, inspect your turn indicator lights and parking lights. You can also upgrade to LED bulbs for brighter light and lower power consumption
• Air Filter – If you’re like a lot of us, your air filter should’ve replaced years ago. It’s easy to do, isn’t very costly, and can help with better gas mileage.
• Belts and Hoses – If you aren’t an auto mechanic, this may be a little daunting however it can actually be quite straightforward. First thing is to look for splits in the hoses, after that squeeze the tubes to see if they seem brittle. Hoses should feel rubbery, if they feel really brittle or have splits you need to replace them. Try to find leaks on your hoses, particularly where they link to other components. Lastly, checks the belts to make certain they aren’t loosely attached or have missing notches. A broken belt and/or hose can promptly wreck your trip and your engine.
• Battery – See to it that the battery terminals are not corroded and that the +/- connections are tight. If your vehicle starts slowly you may need a new battery.
• Brakes – Being able to stop your vehicle capably is key in avoiding collisions. Flushing your brake fluid, replacing the brake pads, and obtaining new brake rotors may be needed to have a risk-free vehicle for your road trip.

Take It for a Test Drive

You understand your automobile much better than anyone. Take it out for a fast spin to see if something really feels off. This isn’t a pleasure cruise so switch off the radio and concentrate. Does your vehicle pull to one side under heavy braking? Does your Air Conditioning blow cold air? If something feels off, you should have an expert take a look into it.

Schedule Vehicle’s Road Trip Maintenance Today

Schedule your car’s road trip maintenance service at Bob Howard Acura. We are your trusted source for all service needs in the Oklahoma City area. Book an appointment by phone, in-person, or online today. Our mechanics are ready to serve you and your vehicle!