How To Prepare Your Car for a Road trip

When you decide to go out of town, you likely start making a list of things you need to do before leaving. It's important to remember to include your car maintenance on that list. When you fail to ensure your car is in good condition before heading out, you could find that your trip is cut short because of car trouble. Here are some ways you can prepare your car for your trip. 

Check Tire Pressure

If your tires are low, then the extended use on the highway could cause them to blow. If you aren't sure what the correct pressure is for your vehicle, you can find it in your owner's manual or on a sticker on the inside frame of your driver's door.

Most gas stations have air compressors that you can use to fill your tires, but you will want to use your own pressure gauge instead of relying on the one with the compressor. If you don't have a gauge, you can usually swing by an auto body shop Denver CO. Many mechanics will fill your tires for free, and it will only take a few minutes to do.

Check the Oil

Most carmakers suggest that you change the oil in your car every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. If you are due for an oil change, then you'll want to ensure it gets done before you head out. The longer your oil is used, the thicker it becomes, and the more particles get stuck in it. Then, it can't lubricate your engine as well as it should, and you can start to have engine issues, which could be catastrophic if you go long enough without an oil change. 

If you are still inside the recommended oil change timeframe, then use the dipstick to verify that the oil is at a good level. If you're running low, add oil until you're in the optimal area on the dipstick.

Check the Brake Pads

Brake pads are vital to ensuring your car can stop on time. When the pads on your car are worn, they don't have enough grab on them, making it so you don't stop as quickly as you would like. If you notice that your car has a grinding or screeching noise when you hit the brakes, then it's time for new pads. 

Check the Belts

If even one of your belts breaks while you're on your trip, you're going to be in trouble. The easiest way to check for belt issues is to turn your car on and look at the engine. If the belts are frayed or broken, you'll quickly see it as they are running in the engine.