How to Prepare Your Car for a Trip - Resources

In a land of purple mountain majesty and amber waves of grain, car trips are as much an autumn tradition as pumpkin carving and apple pie baking. There are things to do in America to explore for a lifetime, and when the refreshing autumn air blows and the leaves begin to change, many families take the opportunity to explore nature outdoors!

But, as with any serious undertaking, you need to prepare for the trip! After all, you rely on the one thing that will get you to and fro: your trusty metal steed. (Of course, it's your car.) If a tire blows or the radiator overheats, you may encounter unpleasant scenery while waiting for help on the side of the highway. A tow truck ride is a depressing end to a delightful vacation day!

So before you hit the road, sit down and make a list. What should be done to prepare the car for the trip? Here is Raleigh's car expert's opinion on preparing for the trip.

1) Make sure you have a roadside assistance kit.

Start with the worst case scenario first. If you break down on the side of the road, you need to be prepared to wait as long as it takes to get help, even if it happens at night. Before you hit the road, make sure your phone is charged, that you have a car charger, and that you have everything you need in case of a roadside emergency. Your kit should include basic items like first aid supplies, a flashlight, gloves and a tire iron, as well as items you don't normally think of like a space blanket (no really! Check them out!) and road flares.

2) Check the tires.

Whatever you do, don't travel with worn tires. This is dangerous not only for you, but also for other drivers on the road. If you see cracks, bulges, or blisters on the sidewall, this is a warning sign. As well as thin tire tread. (Measure this by placing a dime in the tread head first. Can you see Lincoln's head? Then it's time for a change.) Depending on how long you plan to drive, the number of miles you drive on your old tires may just mean the end lines for them. Don't take chances - anticipate the problem before you start your trip and buy new tires if you need them.

3) Inflate your tires properly.

It seems simple, but you'd be surprised how often people forget to do it. Before you start, take a pressure gauge (you do have one, right?) and check the air pressure in the tires. If your tires came with your vehicle from the factory, the recommended air pressure will likely be listed in your vehicle owner's manual. If they are low, inflate the tires to the correct pressure. This will ensure that all tires work evenly and you won't have any camber issues while riding.

4) Check all your fluids.

Most people remember to check their oil, but what about checking other fluids? Coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid and windshield washer fluid are vital components in the operation of your vehicle. (Okay, so window cleaner isn't vital, but it's certainly handy when you're rolling down a bug-strewn beach road.) Make sure all your fluids are properly topped up. If you don't know how to do it yourself, no problem - it can be done quickly and easily at Chapel Hill Tire!

5) Check the wipers.

If you notice streaks on your windshield after rain, you may need new wipers. Not sure? Good to recheck. Raise each wiper and look for signs of discoloration, cracking, or jagged edges on the rubber wiper blade—the part that actually makes contact with the windshield. If you're in need of new wipers, don't wait until you're at the top of this majestic mountain pass during a thunderstorm to find out! You can easily replace them yourself or have Chapel Hill Tire do the job!

Have you done these five things? Then pack your car and turn on the radio because it's time for a fun ride! Chapel Hill Tire hopes that wherever your wandering heart takes you, you'll have fun - and do it safely! If you need help preparing for your trip, bring your vehicle to your local Chapel Hill Tire Service Center for a ride inspection. We will make sure your car is ready to drive before the big trip; make an appointment today!

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