Long Distance Journeys and Proper Preparation Part 2

With proper preparation and some necessary maintenance and repairs, you can go on long journeys in your car, without any worry of breaking down or being stranded on some unknown roadway.

There are several things you should do to prepare for your long drive, before you begin to pack up your car with suitcases. To begin with, you should check all of your cars ‘fluid levels (i.e. oil, transmission, wiper fluid, antifreeze/coolant and brake fluids.) If you have any doubts about the processes for checking these fluids correctly, please refer to our articles on these topics, or consider leaving your car at a car repair shop to have it inspected and a tune up completed properly before you leave for your long trip. The car repair professionals should fill all of the fluids to the appropriate levels. Change the fluid and or filters if necessary. After your fluids are filled to the proper amount and you are confident that they are not producing any leaks anywhere, you will need to now check the condition of all hoses and clamps. Inspect these both visually for any cracks or corrosion and physically buy giving the hoses a slight squeeze. Check the clamps for any rust and check that they are tightened. All of these things should be a regular part of your car care routine, so you should find that everything is in working order and good condition. While you are double-checking everything, be sure not to forget the windshield wiper blades and the tires condition and air pressure.

Now, if you are confident that everything will be reliable during your long journey you can begin to pack up your car with a few necessities.  To be completely prepared for a safe trip and to give you and your car the car care necessary for the trip, you will need to pack more than just suitcases or personal belongings. First you think of any instance that could possibly occur in which you may require some supplies. In the event of a flat tire, for instance, you should have packed a tire pump (preferably a battery operated one to make refilling the tire easier.) A good quality and reliable car jack. A piece of wood (plywood is suitable or you could use a piece of carpeting.) to place the car jack something solid. You will also need to pack extra fluids; at least 2 quarts of oil, a pint of brake fluid, transmission fluid (1 quart) 1 gallon of antifreeze, some power steering fluid and 1 gallon of water. Additionally you should pack some extra gasoline. (Check that all fluid containers are tightly closed to avoid any leaks.) Pack a small container or tool box with your basic screwdrivers and wrenches also pack a roll of duct tape. Packing a windshield cover or car cover will help to eliminate heat if you happen to break down on a hot or humid day. Finally, pack a few toys or books for small children to use if your car breaks down during your trip, as small children will become restless and irritable quite easily in this type of situation.