It's time to hit the road and visit loved ones for Christmas! You've mapped out your route, booked hotels, and made a checklist of things to pack. But have you thought about your car maintenance? Use this car care checklist to ensure your vehicle is ready for your holiday road trip.
1. Check Tires and Tire Pressure
Before you set off, inspect all four tires as well as your spare (if you have one). Look for cuts, gouges, or sidewall bulges. To check tire tread, insert a quarter upside down into the grooves. If you can see the top of George Washington's head, it's time for new tires.
Check tire pressure when the car has been idle and the tires are cool. Inflate them to the vehicle manufacturer's recommended pressure, which you'll find in the owner's manual and on the sticker inside the driver's side door jamb. Don't use the number on the tire sidewall.
2. Listen to and Feel the Brakes
Your brakes should operate smoothly and silently. If you hear grinding or loud noises when you push on the brakes, it may be time for a professional inspection.
3. Secure and Test the Battery
Check your car battery to ensure that cable connections are clean and tight, and that the hold-down hardware is secure. It's a good idea to have a service professional test the battery to determine its remaining capacity.
4. Top Off Engine Oil and Other Fluids
Make sure your engine oil, coolant, and brake, transmission, and power steering fluids are at the correct levels. When adding fluids, use products that meet the specifications listed in your owner's manual. Note that newer car models may have sealed automatic transmissions without a dipstick and electric power steering that doesn't use fluid.
5. Replace Wiper Blades and Replenish Windshield Cleaner
Rubber wiper blades deteriorate over time. If your wipers streak or don't clear the windshield thoroughly, replace them. Fill the windshield washer reservoir with fluid formulated to remove insects and other debris, and test to ensure the nozzles spray adequately.
6. Check Belts and Hoses
Inspect reinforced rubber drive belts that power the engine water pump and accessories like the alternator and air conditioning compressor. Replace any that are cracked, glazed, or frayed. Modern multi-rib or drive belt materials may not show visible signs of wear, so as a general rule, replace drive belts every 60,000 miles.
Inspect and replace worn, brittle, bulging, or excessively soft radiator hoses. Check for leaks around hose clamps, the radiator, and the water pump.
7. Replenish Emergency Kit Supplies
Keep a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle. Include a flashlight and extra batteries, first-aid supplies, drinking water, non-perishable snacks for people and pets, car battery booster cables, emergency flares or reflectors, a rain poncho, a basic tool kit, duct tape, gloves, and shop rags or paper towels.
8. Plan Ahead for Vehicle Service
In case you need vehicle maintenance during your trip, know ahead of time where to find a trusted auto repair shop and technician.
Be Ready For Christmas Travel
This car maintenance checklist will help ensure your vehicle is ready for the road, allowing you to focus on enjoying your Christmas travel. Safe travels!
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