Embarking on a road trip is always an exciting adventure. But, it is important to ensure that the car you are navigating the country with will be able to handle the distance, especially if you are driving a classic car with years of experience. Here are some tips for getting your car ready for the long haul.
Inspecting the car inside and out to determine its condition is crucial to completing any road trip. Belts, gaskets, and even seats may need to be replaced. It also pays to check the condition of all four tires. Having the ideal air pressure in each tire cuts down on the likelihood of something going wrong. This is especially true for any car that is driven significantly less during the coldest months of the year. A tire can become flat simply from sitting in one place for too long. A spare tire should always be kept in the car and checked for any signs of flatness.
Brakes should always be tested before a road trip, as well. This involves determining the fluid level is ideal and checking the master cylinder for the right levels; a step that should never be overlooked. In addition to the master cylinder fluid, the brake fluid should be checked, as this fluid can leak out of a car at times. If the car is a classic, it may be difficult to determine when the brake lines or pads were last replaced.
A car’s engine should be kept cool for a road trip. If this trip is taking place over the summer months, this is even more important. The cooling system can and should often be flushed before starting the journey. Fresh fluid keeps a car’s engine cooled down and healthy. The radiator cap and fins should also be checked in an effort to keep the car in working condition. The cap should be firmly in place and the fins should be free of any debris.
Above all else, a tune-up is always recommended. The spark plugs, oil, and filter are all parts that should be covered with said tune-up. The plugs need to be free of oil and air filters need to be cleared.
These are all the tasks that should be completed before a journey across the country. Many people even choose to test drive their car a long distance before leaving home. Regardless, traveling the road less traveled with a well prepared classic car is not only safe, but an extremely enjoyable experience, as well.