Travel the road with confidence in 10 steps

Maintenance > Travel

How to get your car ready to travel

Most of everything should be routine maintenance but sometimes double checking now may save time and money in the near future. Besides who wants to spend their next vacation along side the road in the next state over?

So lets start by making a check list. We can write it down or keep it in our head. But make a list we shall. We will also assume there are no major problems with your vehicle. Of course you would want to fix those major problems first. No vacation for a car with major issues.

The List

1. Do a walk around - I like to start by looking all around the vehicle.
2. Check the tires - this means the tire tread and pressure. If one has a noticeable leak, now would be the time to have it fixed.
   
3. Check all the exterior lights - including brake lights. Nobody wants pulled over on their vacation either. Make sure all the bulbs a functioning. Test your hazards as well. If you have a headlight or bulb out, repair it before traveling.
4. Pop the hood - Here you will want to take a close look around. Check your serpentine belt. Check the fluid levels. Check the engine oil level, transmission fluid level, power steering fluid, coolant level and brake fluid level. Take note and top off levels accordingly. Inspect the battery cable ends for corrosion.
   
5. Windshield wipers - Vision is pretty important when traveling. Clean the windshield and check for proper function of the windshield wipers. Check the windshield wiper fluid level.
6. Inspect the filters - Remove and inspect the engine air filter and the cabin air filter if equipped. Replace as needed.
7. Test drive - Take a quick trip to the store. This may not be the vehicle you normally drive everyday. So take this time to figure out any issues that may be going on. Test the brakes and steering. Make sure the check engine light isn't illuminated.
8. Temperature - Test the function of your heater and air conditioning. Think about where you will travel. It may be cold now but may be hot at your destination.
9. Pop the trunk - Check the spare tire inflation and tire changing equipment. Take this time to clean out any junk that may have been left. You may need to pack a few things.
10. Clean it - Final step is to clean the vehicle. Clean it inside and out. Wash the outside and vacuum the inside. Treat your car the way you would want it to treat you. Enjoy your travels!