8 Smart Steps to Take to Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip

Thanks to increasingly luxurious vehicles, more and more travelers are opting to hit the road when it’s time to cover a lot of miles for a vacation or visit. While amenities like satellite radio and distractions for passengers are nice, it’s more important to make sure your car is prepared for a prolonged trip. Here’s how to make sure you (and your vehicle) can go the distance.

1. GRAB AN EMERGENCY KIT. 

The only thing worse than breaking down is breaking down on a busy stretch of highway without the necessary equipment to make sure you and your passengers remain safe. A kit in your trunk should have flares (so passing traffic can spot you), oil, a flashlight, rags, extra spark plugs, and anything else recommended by your maintenance representative.

Lifeline 4388AAA Excur... Buy New $72.00 (as of 03:00 UTC - Details) 2. GET A FLUID INSPECTION. 

Brake fluid, transmission fluid, antifreeze, power steering—all of it contributes to a car maintaining its locomotion. Have levels checked, replaced, or topped off before you leave, and have a serviceman check hose connections. For especially long trips, ask if you might benefit from a higher-grade oil that could be better for fuel economy.

3. CHECK YOUR TIRES AND BRAKES.

As you’ve probably heard, tires are the only connection your car has with the road: Braking, acceleration and overall safety depends on them being in top condition. Check them for proper air pressure, punctures, and tread wear and remember that the pressure numbers on the tires themselves are usually a max, not the ideal pressure. Check inside the door or the manual for that. For brakes, make sure you address any “soft” pedals and get a full inspection.

4. READ YOUR OWNER’S MANUAL. 

It’s not exactly beach reading, but it will tell you how the car handles different situations—icy roads, steep hills—and how best to maneuver the vehicle when you encounter obstacles.

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