10 Tips to Prep Your Car for a Spring Road Trip
10 Tips to Prep Your Car for a Spring Road Trip
Getting your car ready for a spring road trip is like giving it a little TLC so it can take care of you on the road. After being cooped up all winter, there’s nothing like hitting the open road to enjoy the fresh, warm air and beautiful blooming landscapes of spring. But before you set off, it’s important to prep your car to make sure it’s up to the task. Here are 10 simple tips to get your vehicle road-trip ready!
1. Check the oil and filters
Oil is the lifeblood of your car, and keeping it fresh along with the filters can really boost your car’s performance. Over time, oil gets dirty and less effective, which can wear out your engine. Before you head out, replace the old oil and check the air and cabin filters. This could help your engine run better and also keep the air inside your car clean, making your trip more pleasant.
2. Inspect tires and alignment
Tires are crucial for safe driving. Check them for any signs of wear like cracks or uneven patterns. Also, make sure they’re inflated to the right pressure; it makes a big difference in how your car handles and can even save you some gas money. Don’t forget to have your alignment checked too, as winter potholes can really throw it off.
3. Test the brakes
Brakes are your first line of defense when it comes to road safety. Test them to make sure they respond well and aren’t making any strange noises. If something feels off, it might be time to get them checked by a professional. Better safe than sorry!
4. Clean the car inside and out
Nobody likes a dirty space, especially when you’re going to spend hours in it. A good clean not only makes your car look great but feel great too. Wash the exterior and vacuum the interior. Clean windows are also a must for clear visibility during your trip.
5. Top off all fluids
Fluids are essential for your car’s operation. Check levels of coolant to keep your engine at the right temperature, windshield washer fluid for a clear view, and brake fluid for effective braking. Topping these off can prevent a lot of troubles on the road.
6. Check the battery
Winter can be hard on your car’s battery. Check if it’s still holding a charge well. If your car starts slowly or the battery looks corroded, it might be time to replace it. A strong battery means less chance of getting stranded!
7. Test the air conditioning
Spring can get surprisingly warm, so make sure your car’s air conditioning is up to snuff. Nothing ruins a road trip faster than being stuck in a hot car with no AC!
8. Inspect wiper blades
Spring showers are common, so clear visibility is key. Check your wiper blades for wear and replace them if they leave streaks. It’s an easy fix that can make a big difference when the rain starts to pour.
9. Organize an emergency kit
It’s always good to be prepared. Put together an emergency kit with essentials like tools, water, snacks, jumper cables, and a flashlight. This kit could be a lifesaver in unexpected situations.
10. Download offline maps
When traveling to new places, especially rural or remote areas, phone signals can be unreliable. Downloading offline maps can keep you on track even when the network lets you down. This way, you’ll always know where you are and how to get to your next destination.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.