Daily writing prompt
You’re going on a cross-country trip. Airplane, train, bus, car, or bike?
Is there any better way of going cross country than taking a car? Well maybe a Motorcycle but then it has to be with a few other riders. For me the car is absolutely my choice.
Of course coming from my point of view a well serviced car is essential. But a pre trip check over should be carried out. After all this is going to be a fun trip.
So what should be looked at before a long journey?
- Unless done very recently an oil change is a good idea. Same goes for all the filters. Lots of other components are seen as we do theses simple jobs so it’s much more than just renewing parts for the sake of it. A mechanics eye will see a lot while under a vehicle to drain the oil. Top up all fluids at this stage too.
- Brakes. Don’t leave it to chance, if they look half worn just get them done. Slightly worn is ok if you’re just doing the daily drive but if you’re going a road trip they are going to be under much more pressure probably constantly hot and will wear faster.
- Tires, pressure, wear pattern and especially checking the spare – if you have one – if you don’t check that the emergency kit is still serviceable. Do you have tools in there to change out a wheel?
- Lights. Check them all with someone outside the car while you turn on each one to make sure they work. That light in your dash won’t always alert you to lighting issues.
- Washer fluid and wipers should be checked. These are commonly over looked.
That’s the essentials from a mechanical point of view. It’s probably a good idea to have some good breakdown coverage to get you home or even to get you to a hotel for a night should the unthinkable happen.
All that done it’s time to see the country with peace of mind and the comfort of knowing you can, if all else fails rely on your car.
