How to Prep Your Auto for a Road Trip

Lengthy road trips usually require careful planning and preparation. This is for good reason since something can easily go wrong with the automobile. The transmission can malfunction, oils can leak, tires can go flat, and the list unfortunately continues on to every problem imaginable. Yet if you follow as simple checklist before you take off for an extended hour drive, your Bixby auto should be in fairly good shape and be able to avoid many major bumps on the road.

Car Checkup
Before you take matters into your own hands, see if you have time to get a mechanic inspect your car. You’ll want to do this especially if you need your oil changed or you want a tune up. If the mechanic sees that any major repairs need to be done, be sure to get them underway before you take off on a road trip. You can also ask the auto mechanic for tips on how to take care of your vehicle as you take it from one city to another.

Tire Assessment
When it comes to your own inspection, don’t neglect to look at the tires. They may seem like they’re in okay condition, but remember that can change quickly if your car runs over a spike or a large shard of glass. Be sure you have a working spare tire and tools to change a tire if this should happen. Also take a look at tire pressure to be sure they’re in good working order. If they’re too low, then this could mean tire blowout, so make sure you give it plenty of air.

Fluid Evaluation
As you may know, a car’s fluids are critical to the way it functions. Engine oil, transmission fluid, and gasoline are the top three things you need to check up on. Be sure there’s enough of each of these and that there aren’t any leaks or ruptures. It also might be wise to keep a gallon of gasoline in your car in case of emergency or if you become too far in between gas stations. Another fluid to keep your eye on is coolant. If the climate of your destination is far different from the starting point, adjust antifreeze levels.

Light Examination
One last item to check off as you look over your Bixby auto is the lights. You don’t want to be pulled over on your road trip just because a cop noticed a broken or burnt out light in the back. Be sure to check all lights, which include blinkers, dashboard and car interior lighting, and front and back lights. Driving in the dark without lights is dangerous so be sure yours will last the entire road trip.