
Read this before hitting the road for vacation
Read this before hitting the road for vacation. Traveling by car during vacations has multiple benefits: the freedom to choose your itinerary, carry more luggage, enjoy the scenery, save money, and get to know the country better. That’s why nearly 85% of US vacationers use a vehicle to reach their destination.
In the country, around 189,000 vehicles break down daily. These numbers increase during summer vacations.
If you’re planning to travel and want to avoid any disruptions to your plans, in addition to thinking about the wonders of your destination, accommodations, restaurants, and attractions you’ll enjoy, it’s essential to prepare your car before embarking on your long road trip. How can you do it?
- Check the tires:
It’s common to see tire fragments on the sides of highways, evidence of vehicles that have broken down. To avoid the same fate, the key is to measure the tread depth of the tires. An easy trick is to take a penny and, with Lincoln’s head facing down, place it between the grooves of the tread. If you can see Lincoln’s entire head, you need to change the tire, as it has less than 1.6 millimeters of depth and is susceptible to bursting or hydroplaning. Also, check the tire pressure. - Check the battery’s condition:
How unpleasant would it be to stop with your family to eat at a restaurant and then find that your car won’t start when you try to resume the journey? Before setting off on your trip, it’s best to have a mechanic check the battery’s condition. A battery in good condition measures 13 volts. - Check the engine oil and fluid levels:
Before embarking on a long journey, it’s crucial to ensure that the engine is well lubricated and has enough oil. If you’re close to the recommended oil change mileage by the manufacturer, it’s better to do it beforehand rather than waiting until after the trip. - Check the windshield wipers:
We’re in summer, but it’s likely to rain during the trip. Properly functioning wiper blades will help maintain visibility. - Check the lights:
At night, the lights are your eyes on the road, and during the day with rain, they allow other drivers to see you. Before setting off, make sure that both the high beams and low beams are working correctly. - Check the spare tire:
Some drivers don’t even know where the spare tire is located. Find it, inflate it, and check the location and condition of the jack. If a tire blows out in a remote location, you’ll have no choice but to change it yourself. Just in case, bring along gloves and a small first-aid kit. - Check the documentation:
Remember to bring all the vehicle documentation, including registration, driver’s license, and insurance. Read this before hitting the road for vacation.
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