Things To Check Before Your Next Road Trip » MotorOctane

Everybody is looking for an escape from the day-to-day hectic life. And one of the most accessible ways to get away is a weekend-long trip. If you are planning a long road trip, here are a few things to check before your next road trip:

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Tyres:

Tyres are the only point of contact between the road and your car. Tyre condition matters a lot throughout the journey. Before starting any long trip, always check the tyre pressure and tread depth. Lower tyre pressure can reduce fuel efficiency, and even higher tyre pressure can lead to stiffness while driving. A worn-out tyre can lead to loss of grip, which can prove to be dangerous. You can bring your tyres up to the recommended pressure, but it is always safer to replace the worn-out tyre.

Warning Lights On The Instrument Cluster:

Modern cars come equipped with various sensors. These sensors are always keeping the car’s crucial components in check. If any dashboard warning lights keep recurring, your vehicle might need a technical inspection. Ignoring the warning lights can lead to unexpected breakdowns or even vehicle failure during your journey. General servicing is recommended before any long journey, including topping up all fluids and checking the battery.

Electrical Components:

Along with the battery, all the electrical components need to be checked before a long trip. Electric elements, including headlights, brake lights, indicators, horn, wipers and even the air conditioning system, need to be checked. Your car may run fine even if components fail, but it can lead to discomfort and raise safety concerns. Especially at night and in bad weather, it is dangerous to drive without lights and wipers.

Emergency Kits:

Being prepared for emergencies is always better on a road trip. While a first-aid kit is mandatory in all vehicles sold in India, always ensure it is in a place you know. Basic tools, including the car jack, puncture repair kit, and some tools required to make temporary fixtures, may not be provided by the manufacturer. Additionally, it’s better to carry a set of jumper cables and a portable tyre inflator. Make sure to have them, as they help manage minor issues until you reach a professional mechanic.

Important Document:

Before starting any journey, whether intercity or outside the state, make sure to carry all car and driver related documents. Documents such as the Registration Certificate (RC), insurance papers, the Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and the driver’s driving licence need to be checked. Along with the digital copies, we advise carrying the physical copy of these documents as well, making hassle-free clearance everywhere you go.

Essential Things People Often Ignore While Planning:

The majority often overlooks a few necessary checks. Many ignore the condition of the spare tyre and wheel alignment, which can cause trouble on long drives. Route and Fuel planning for long stretches along FASTage balance must be done before the trip begins. Driver fatigue is ignored, which can even lead to accidents. The driver needs to be well-rested before the long stretches. Carrying some food and hydration supplies with you is always a plus.

General Servicing:

General servicing, including topping up all necessary fluids such as engine oil, washer fluid, and coolant, is advised before long trips. Also, replacing worn-out parts ensures you won’t have any trouble during your journey.

Extra time spent completing this checklist can help you enjoy your trip without avoidable problems.

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