Proper car care a must before traveling
Before running a marathon a person must make sure they are in good health in order to finish. It is also important to make sure a car is in good shape before taking it on a long road trip.
Much like our bodies, a car has vital fluids to help it function properly by keeping it cool and providing lubrication.
“The most important thing you can do to maintain your car is to read the owner’s manual,” Brad Webster, manager of Logan Lube, said.
Many owner’s manuals will have a maintenance schedule and recommended intervals for changing fluids. They will also make suggestions for different driving conditions.
One of the most important fluids in a car is the oil. This lubricates the engine to prevent friction and wear and keeps it from locking up. The oil should be checked every time one fills the car with gas, and the necessary amount of oil added to maintain the required level, Webster said.
Many oil manufacturers recommend changing the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, and especially before long trips. Fresh and clean oil helps keep the engine clean and reduces wear.
Another vital fluid is the antifreeze/coolant. This cycles through the radiator and engine and keeps it from overheating. According to the vehicle’s owner’s manual form a Jeep Cherokee, coolant should be checked with the engine cool. It is checked at the radiator cap or a see-through reservoir.
The transmission and drive train components also use oil for lubrication and movement. These should be checked and filled before a long trip. According to the manual, automatic transmissions are checked using a dipstick. Manual transmissions are checked by removing the fill plug on the transmission. Fluid should be at the bottom of the filler hole.
According to the manual, other fluids that should be checked often are the power steering fluid, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid and battery fluid levels. Most of these will have a reservoir or cap and dipstick.
According to the manual, “Attention to proper maintenance of these items will assure long and economical service from your vehicle.”
Drivers should refer to the service and maintenance section of the owner’s manual to learn how to check these items. It will give detailed information and descriptions for each one.
Another important thing to think about when planning a road trip is tires, Webster said. According to the manual, tires should have adequate tread for traction. Also check for uneven tread wear, cracks and weather damage. Tires should be properly inflated to the manufacturer’s specifications. They also may need to be rotated. The spare tire should also be inflated. The jack should also be present.
Travelers should think about the area one will be traveling in. If crossing a snowy mountain pass, it may be a good idea to take along a set of tire chains. But make sure they are the proper size for the car, Webster said.
He said one of the easiest ways to check a car before a trip is to walk around it and check everything one can see. Look under the car for drips and leaks. Look at the frame and suspension components for cracks. Check the exhaust system for cracks and leaks. These can be very deadly. It is also important to know the condition of the brake pads.
Keeping the car clean helps drivers spot things, and dirt is also a harsh abrasive that can cause wear, Webster said.
According to the manual, things to check under the hood include belts and hoses. Hoses should be inspected for cracks and leaks. Cold weather can also cause them to shrink, making the clamps come loose at the joints. Belts should be checked for excessive wear and tightness. A squeaky belt indicates it is loose. Belts are needed to run the alternator, air conditioner, power steering and the water pump.
It may also be a good idea to change the air filter and fuel filter to keep the engine running smoothly. Make sure to use the proper grade of gasoline which meets the manufacturer’s requirements, Webster said.
Other things one should make sure are in working order are wiper blades, lights, brakes, the heater and the air conditioner, Webster said. Make sure the interior is clean and comfortable to make the trip more enjoyable.