For many, back to school means “road trip!” For those whose vehicles are regularly serviced, it may be ready to go. But if it’s been some time since the vehicle has been serviced or inspected, a trip inspection may be in order. With the disparity that now exists in the different brands and models of cars, not all of what will be discussed here may be applicable to your vehicle. This is why it is always suggested to have the vehicle checked by someone who specializes in your model because they already know the areas of concern and the items to scrutinize. A suggestion of items to check are:
FLUID LEVELS
Engine oil, washer fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid and transmission fluid. Your vehicle may have other fluids, may not have all that have been listed here or may have some that require a labor procedure to check. A technician familiar with the model will advise you.
TIRE CONDITION AND PRESSURE
Where the “rubber meets the road” is very important. Tires should be checked for tread depth, wear pattern, punctures and leaks, damage, proper pressure (using the placard on the vehicle and not the maximum pressure stated on the sidewall) and evidence of dry rot. Tires also have a recommended service life because the rubber degrades over time. The production date is on the sidewall and based on the age, the technician can advise as to whether or not the tire should remain in service. Also don’t forget the spare! It is the most overlooked tire on most vehicles.
EXTERIOR LIGHTS
The exterior lights alert others as to your intentions and at night, your location. All should be functioning.
BELTS AND HOSES / UNDER THE HOOD INSPECTION
The technician will look not only at the condition of these, but for any other anomalies that may exist under the hood. Also important is a test of the reserve capacity of the battery (but not all are under the hood).
UNDER VEHICLE INSPECTION
The technician will look for anything that is broken, worn, leaking and/or damaged.
COOLANT (antifreeze) PROTECTION
Engine coolant raises the boiling point of the water in the engine, prevents freezing and is a corrosion deterrent. Note: Over the years, engine coolants have become very specific to the make or model. If you choose to add coolant, ensure that it is the exact formulation for your vehicle. When in doubt and not in freezing conditions, add water. The majority of engine coolants are a mixture of half coolant and half water.
CONDITION OF WIPER BLADES
A lot of people don’t know how well these are working until it rains. Check them before it does.
PARKING BRAKE / EMERGENCY BRAKE OPERATION
Does it function correctly? Does the operator know where it is and how to activate it? This may sound like an odd question, but everyone that I have interviewed whose vehicle lost brakes (often resulting in a collision) told me that in the moment of panic, they completely forgot that the vehicle had an emergency brake.
CLIMATE CONTROL OPERATION
Does the A/C blow cold and the heater blow hot? If not, determine the cause before you leave town.
TEST DRIVE
This one is obvious. The technician will drive the vehicle to determine that everything appears to look, feel, sound and smell normal. Yes, we actually smell the car also. This gives us a hint that there may be refrigerant or coolant leaking into the cabin or that the vehicle is leaking and water is collecting under the carpet.
TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE
Plan well. Every year someone calls the day before (or the day of!) their trip and our schedule cannot accommodate them. Also have any needed maintenance or repairs performed at least 2 weeks before the date of the trip. This allows for some local use of the vehicle to ensure that all went well with the repair.
AND FINALLY
When traversing long distances, a cell phone that works on all major highways is a must and long-distance towing coverage is recommended. There is no trip inspection that can predict the sudden failure of an electrical component on a vehicle.
Again, while this is a good starting point, always consult with a technician familiar with your vehicle. They can offer the best advice for your model.
Have a great trip!
For more information about Hudson’s Import Service, visit hudsonsimport.com.
By Cliff Hudson
Owner, Hudson’s Import Service
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