So, the Summer holidays are upon us and instead of going abroad this year, you’ve decided to pack up the kids and take them on a camping holiday. For your kids, it could be the holiday of a lifetime but for unprepared drivers, it can be a total nightmare. That being said, it’s important that you and your car are ready for a long journey. Whether you’ve got a long way to travel to the campsite or you’ll be changing campsites throughout the holiday, your car needs to be performing at the highest level. Here are some things you need to consider before you go.
Read the Owner’s Manual
You know that book that’s usually left untouched in the glove box? Well, it’s full of useful information for drivers. If you get a flat tyre, it can tell you where the jack is kept and give instructions on how to use it. It can tell you how to tow a caravan and how much weight the car can safely carry (in case there’s someone in the family who likes to pack as if they’re never coming home). The fact is, many drivers completely ignore their handbooks and usually figure things out by a process of elimination or relying on mechanics to do simple jobs. By just taking a quick look through the manual, you may learn a lot about your car and how to take care of it.
Check Under the Hood
Now, I know what you’re thinking. If you don’t know what you’re looking for there’s not much point in looking at all. But, there are certain things that may stand out. For example, see if you can spot any leakages. Look for parts that may seem worn out and ask your mechanic if it needs to be replaced. You can find out more about car safety with tpms reviews. The parts under the hood need to be kept clean, so if you open it up and dust flies at you, it may be time for a clean out.
Check Your Oil
If you’ve never checked your oil before, it’s not as complicated as it may seem. Park your car on a level surface so it isn’t tipped either way. Start your car and leave it running for a minute, then turn it off. Wait another minute so the oil has a chance to run down the oil pan. Under your hood you’ll find an oil dipstick. Take dipstick and wipe it clean with a cloth. Dip it back in and pull it out again so you can clearly see the results. If the dipstick looks as though you may be low on oil, it’s best to top up before you go. If the oil looks black, you should replace it before travelling.
Stay Alert
A car is only as good as its driver, so it’s important for you to be alert while driving. Don’t attempt to drive when you’re tired. Pull over if you become distracted by something and try to avoid driving when you’re unwell. If you do need to take medication while driving, make sure it’s a non-drowsy brand.
