Before going on a road trip, it is important to always have a routine check completed on the car. In addition to the routine check, any necessary maintenance should be completed before leaving on the trip. However, despite the best of precautions, the long distances driven, the changing climate and the increased driving time can lead to sudden car problems while on the road.
The following four car problems are a few of the most common car issues that can occur on a road trip along with some simple tips for taking care of them without missing out on the rest of the trip.
Flat Tire
Flat tires are can occur without warning on a road trip. This is especially true when traveling unfamiliar terrain. For this reason, it is important to carefully inspect all of a vehicle’s tires before leaving on a trip to ensure that there are not any signs of wear that could lead to a flat.
Additionally, each tire should be aired to its proper inflation level. In case the worst happens, keeping a spare tire and the tools to change it in the car can ensure that everyone gets back on the road safely. Because it is not safe to drive on a spare tire for long distances, San Francisco car maintenance professionals recommend replacing the spare tire as soon as possible.
Overheating
Long distance driving and hot temperatures can quickly lead to an overheated car. While there can be many different reasons why a car will overheat, one of the most common reasons for overheating is a lack of coolant.
Therefore, coolant levels should be checked before leaving on a road trip. In case a car overheats on the road, it can be helpful to carry a gallon of water to help cool the car enough to get to a mechanic. Because overheating can point to a serious problem with the car, it is recommended to get it repaired as soon as possible.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is often the result of leaving the headlights or other car feature on for too long. However, batteries can also lose their charge when their fluid levels get too low or in response to the cold. Batteries can be checked to ensure that they are charged before leaving on a trip. It is also helpful to keep jumper cables or a portable charger in the car in case the battery dies suddenly on the road.
Squealing Brakes
A car’s brakes may seem fine before leaving on a trip, but they may suddenly start to squeal after excessive use. Brakes should be included in the inspection done before a road trip. However, if they start to squeal, then it may be time for some new brakes.
Because brakes are a serious safety feature that is especially important on a road trip, this car problem should be taken to a San Francisco car maintenance professional.
Staying safe on a road trip depends upon preventing and handling routine car problems as they may occur. While a car should be inspected before a road trip, it is possible that a problem might still arise. When common car problems happen on a road trip, knowing how to fix them in order to get to a mechanic can make a difference in the quality and safety of a road trip.