With Thanksgiving approaching, many people plan on driving for the Thanksgiving weekend, either because of shorter distance or in order to avoid busy airports. One way to insure that the Thanksgiving vacation will not turn into a nightmare is to prevent car-trouble on the road. According to the Car Care Council, all that’s needed to avoid a break-down far from home is a 10-minute check.
The Car Care Council recommends vehicle owners that plan on driving to their family and friends for Thanksgiving a five step inspection.
One should check all the cars fluids, the belts and hoses, tires, lighting and wipers.
The fluid check should include engine oil, windshield washer, antifreeze liquids, as well as brake and power steering transmission fluids.
The belts and hoses should be inspected to make sure they aren’t loose, brittle or cracked, or for any other indications of excessive wear, as they are critical to several systems (electrical, cooling, power steering, air conditioning).
Windshield wipers should be replaced every six months and the reservoir should be filled with solvents or washers. The lighting systems should also be inspected to make sure they don’t fail on the road, as risk of accident is higher in conditions of low visibility.
Tires should be checked for even pressure and proper alignment, as well as bald spots and bulges.
Other than these checks, a first aid kit should be refilled with all the necessary items.
A pre-trip verification can reduce the risk of costly and potentially dangerous problems on the road, while also giving the owner the opportunity to make any necessary repairs with a technician that is familiar with the vehicle, say company representatives.
