Ways To Have A Safe And Enjoyable Road Trip

The next time you travel if you take ten minutes before you travel it can save you time and money. Take ten minutes and make sure your vehicle is ready for travel with these tips from the Car Care Council.

• Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering fluid, brake and transmission fluid. Well you are at it take the time to also check the windshield washer fluid and the antifreeze/coolant.
• Check the hoses and belts that can become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show any signs of excessive wear. These are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, the air conditioning, the power steering and the coolant system.
• Check the tires, including the tire pressure and tread depth. Uneven wear indicates a need for a wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.

The council also recommends that wipers, interior and exterior lighting on a vehicle be checked prior to your road trip. Also it is a good thing that motorists restock and bring along a emergency roadside kit. As a rule of thumb wipers should be changed every six months and all lighting check monthly.

To save fuel costs during a road trip, avoid aggressive driving. Observe the speed limits and avoid a lot of idling. Turn of the automobile when stopped. Gas caps that are damaged, loose or missing should be replaced to prevent gas from spilling or evaporating.

Please have a safe and enjoyable road trip.