Americans love road trips for many reasons. For one, road trips are a great way to see the country. You can explore different parts of the US that you might not otherwise get to see. Second, they’re affordable. You can pack all your food and drinks and only have to pay for gas. Finally, they’re a fun way to travel with friends or family. Being in a car together for hours brings people together and creates memories.
It’s no wonder why over two hundred million Americans are planning to go on a road trip this summer. If you have a road trip planned, congratulations! You’re in for a great time. But before you hit the open road, there are a few things you need to do to prepare your vehicle. After all, a road trip is a long journey, and you want to ensure your car can handle it. Here are five ways to prepare your vehicle for your next road trip:
Get an oil change
This is probably the most important thing you can do to prepare your car for a road trip. An oil change will ensure that your engine is running smoothly and efficiently. It will also help prevent any potential breakdowns. Ensure you get an oil change a few days before your trip, so the oil has time to settle.
You can do this oil change yourself. First, start by finding the right oil for your car. You can consult your owner’s manual or ask a mechanic. Once you have the right oil, find a level place to park your vehicle and let it run for a few minutes. This will help warm up the engine and make it easier to drain the oil. Next, locate the oil drain plug and remove it. The oil will start draining out. Once it’s done, replace the drain plug and fill the engine with new oil.
Get a Brand New Coating
The coating can help make the vehicle more resistant to scratches, water spots, UV radiation, and corrosion. An excellent ceramic coating will also make cleaning your car much more accessible. You won’t have to worry about all the dirt and grime that comes with road tripping. If you’re going to be away for a long time, this coating will ensure that your car is safe from scratches or further depreciation.
Check your tires
Your tires are one of the essential parts of your car. They’re what keep you moving forward on the road. Before you go on a road trip, check your tires to ensure they’re in good condition. Look for any cracks, bald spots, or other signs of wear and tear. If you find any, consider getting new tires. It’s also a good idea to check the tire pressure. You can do this with a tire pressure gauge. The ideal pressure for most tires is between 30-35 PSI.
If your car has a spare tire, check that as well. Ensure it’s properly inflated and the tread isn’t too worn down. You don’t want to get stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire and no way to fix it. Also, make sure to rotate your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. This ensures even wear and tear, which will prolong the life of your tires.
Clean out your car
This one is more for your comfort than your car’s. No one wants to road trip in a dirty car. So before you go, give your car a good cleaning. Vacuum the floor and seats and wipe down all the surfaces. This will help make the trip more enjoyable. You can also declutter your car to make more space for your things. Get rid of any trash or items you don’t need. This will also help you find things more easily on the road.
Create a maintenance schedule
A maintenance schedule is a great way to track when you need to service your car. By creating a schedule, you’ll be less likely to forget important things like oil changes or tire rotations. You can use a notebook or create a spreadsheet to track when you need to service your car. Include the date, mileage, and type of maintenance required. This will help you keep your vehicle in excellent condition and prevent any potential problems down the road.
These are just a few ways to prepare your vehicle for a road trip. By following these tips, you can ensure that your car is ready for the journey ahead. Safe travels!
