The Ultimate Road Trip Automotive Maintenance Checklist

Safety List for Road Trips

Ok, you’re ready to check your car with a fine-tooth comb, but where do you begin? Your road trip checklist should focus on 3 primary sections: Fluids, Wheels and Tires, and Maintenance. While not an exhaustive list, if you completely check these locations your chances of an undisturbed journey rises.

Fluids

• Oil – As we stated above, you’ll want to make certain that the engine oil has been recently changed.
• Transmission Fluid – Make sure to consult your owner’s manual to see the intervals at which to have it replaced. If it’s overdue, you’ll need to change it out.
• Radiator fluid – See to it that your antifreeze is full for optimum efficiency and check your owner’s manual to see if it needs to be changed.
• Brake Fluid – Being able to stop properly can mean the difference between an accident or not. If you are uncertain, have it checked
• Wiper Fluid – If you’re likely to be driving a long distance you’re most likely to strike some bugs or other roadway debris. Make sure your windshield wiper fluid container is topped off to get the gunk off. Wiper fluid is ineffective without excellent wipers, so replace your wipers while you’re at it.

Tires

• Tire Tread – See to it there are no bald spots and that you have plenty of tire tread left. Double-check for any punctures that require attention. If they can not be repaired, change them.
• Air Pressure – See to it that your tires are pumped up to the appropriate pressure and that it’s equal in each tire.
• Rotation – See to it that your tires don’t need to be rotated. Tires that aren’t balanced/rotated appropriately can wear unevenly and have an aggravating vibration.
• Spare Tire – Whatever you check on your main tires, do it for your spare too.

Routine Service Items

• Light Bulbs – Burned out headlamps and taillamps can be a safety hazard, so see to it they work normally. While you are at it, check your turn indicator lights and parking lights. You might want to also upgrade to LED light bulbs for brighter light and reduced power usage
• Air Filter – If you resemble a lot of us, your air filter should’ve changed years ago. It’s easy to do, isn’t very expensive, and can help with better gas mileage.
• Belts and Hoses – If you aren’t a mechanic, this might be a little challenging however it can really be fairly simple. First thing is to try to find splits in the hoses, then press the hoses to see if they seem weak. Hoses should feel rubbery, if they feel breakable or have fractures you need to replace them. Try to find leaks on your hoses, specifically where they link to other components. Ultimately, checks the belts to ensure they aren’t loosely connected or have missing notches. A busted belt and/or hose can quickly wreck your trip and your engine.
• Battery – Check to make certain the battery terminals are not rusted and that the positive and negative terminals are tight. If your car starts slowly you might need a new battery.
• Brakes – Having the ability to stop your vehicle effectively is key in staying clear of crashes. Changing your brake fluid, replacing the brake pads, and even obtaining new rotors might be required to have a safe automobile for your trip.

Take a Test Drive

You understand your vehicle much better than anyone. Take it out for a quick drive to see if something feels off. This isn’t a pleasure cruise so turn off the radio and concentrate. Does your vehicle pull to one side under heavy braking? Does your Air Conditioner blow cold? If something feels off, you should absolutely have an expert take a look into it.

Schedule Your Car’s Road Trip Maintenance Today

Schedule your car’s road trip maintenance service at South Pointe Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram. We are your trusted source for all of your vehicle service needs in the Tulsa, OK area. Book an appointment online, in-person, or by phone today. Our factory-trained experts are ready to serve you and your car or truck!