Want a Better Road Trip? This One Thing Almost Guarantees It
If you are like everyone else in America, you are sick of the quarantine. Obviously, you want to keep your family safe, but you are probably experiencing a bit of cabin fever by now.
Doesn’t a road trip sound divine? Camping in the woods or a sweet little hotel by a beach not far from town?
Regardless of where you plan to go on your road trip, one thing is certain, you want to avoid a disaster. One sure-fire way to do this is simply pack up the family car and hit the road.
If you don’t have your vehicle inspected first, you greatly increase your chances of having a breakdown and ruining what could be a spectacular vacation.
This One Tip Will Improve Any Road Trip
Bring your vehicle to Hong Kong Auto Service and let our professional mechanics do a thorough inspection. We will perform any needed maintenance before you head out of town.
This one tip will give you the upper hand when it comes to car trouble.
We’ve seen it too many times ourselves. People from other states come to visit Chicago and end up coming to our shop with their car on a tow truck and unhappy family members in a hotel.
In nearly every case, their problem could have been avoided if they had simply had their vehicle inspected.
For the DIYers
We understand that many people have lost their jobs or experienced other financial difficulties due to the quarantine and this may entice you to inspect your car on your own.
We would like to discourage you from thinking that this is possible. While you might be able to look at a few items, chances are that you don’t have the tools or the experience to inspect everything that needs to be looked at and addressed.
What Is Inspected and What Mechanics Look for
Mechanics have the advantage of putting your car up on a lift. So, it is easy to spot things you might otherwise miss.
While on the lift, your mechanic will look for loose or rusted exhaust pipes, mufflers, tailpipes, and the catalytic converter. Leaks from the transmission or differential are easy to see from underneath, as well as inspecting the front suspension for obvious signs of wear.
Other items the mechanic will inspect include:
- Tires
- Brakes
- Wheel bearings
- CV joints and boots
- Inspect all fluid levels, including changing them if it is time to have them serviced or topping them off if they are low
- Windshield wipers, arms, and their operation
- All exterior and interior light bulbs
- Shocks, struts, and springs
- Battery cables, battery ends, and the battery itself (remember most batteries only last 3-4 years)
- Belts
- Heater hoses, radiator hoses
- The air conditioning system and hoses
- Air filter
- If the Check Engine light is on or if the vehicle has any issues, check the computer for codes for diagnosis
- Check for any leaks, including from the fuel injectors or power steering hoses
- Change the cabin filter if it is time to do so
If your vehicle needs any regular maintenance, this would be the time to do it. So, your ride can head out on its long journey with fresh oil or other components.
Your mechanic will also listen to the motor, most likely take it for a short test drive to feel how the vehicle is operating and listen/feel for signs of worn-out parts.
As you can see, this is an exhaustive list that would be difficult and time-consuming for most DIYers.
Nothing is 100 Percent Certain
Unlike Superman, your mechanic does not have x-ray vision that allows him to see inside the motor. So, even after a vehicle inspection, something could malfunction or break.
However, the chances of that are very slim. Those who have their vehicle inspected, serviced, and repaired don’t often have car trouble.
Expect the Best but Prepare for the Worst
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, things go wrong. After you have had your vehicle inspected, do the following just in case your vehicle decides it doesn’t want to behave and breaks down.
Make a copy of your vehicle’s warranty, roadside assistance, and insurance information and keep them in an easy to reach location, such as the glove box or center console.
Use a duffle bag or other type of storage compartment for emergency items such as flares, a few basic tools, a flashlight with an extra set of batteries, jumper cables or a jump starter, a few blankets, some non-perishable snacks (such as peanuts and dried fruit) and water.
One last trip would be to have an extra key and the key FOB if your car uses one. Keep it in a magnetic holder or hidden somewhere under the hood. It does you no good if you lose your key and the spare is locked inside the car.
A Few More Important Tips
While some of these things might be filed under “No Brainers”, in the excitement of planning and packing for a road trip, it can be easy to forget the simple things, including:
- Don’t overload the car, trailer, or tow more than your vehicle is capable of. You can usually find this information in the owner’s manual or on a plate on the inside of the driver’s door.
- It might be wise to carry a washable mask for everyone in the car in case you run into places that have a “no shoes, no shirt, no mask, no service” policy.
- Check hours and opening dates for places you plan to visit, especially those that are out of state.
- Be sure to pack games or other entertainment items for children. If you have very young children who have a special toy, don’t forget to bring it along. No one wants to spend a week on the road with a toddler who cries every day for his “blankie”.
- Double-check that you have your driver’s license, credit cards, debit cards, and any other vital documents you might need, including medication. Consider leaving items you don’t plan on using (department store credit cards or grocery store loyalty cards) at home.
Have a Great Road Trip!
At Hong Kong Auto Service, we look forward to inspecting your vehicle so you can have a safe road trip. Call us to schedule an appointment and we will be happy to inspect your vehicle so you can have complete peace of mind on your family vacation.