When summers are near numerous of us make plans for new excursions, picnics, and long drives. Most of us plan to go to the nearby countryside which is without a doubt perhaps the best spot on the planet for an excursion in the vehicle. Apart from the countryside some of us may plan to visit our loved ones nearby. Driving out vehicles for such trips is not the same as driving it for daily offices, or daily routines on urban roads.
Roads on such trips may differ and one may come across hot and dusty roads, potholes, and varying road surfaces. There are numerous things which you must take care of before you take off for such trips. But the most important part to look out for is your car tyres.
Car tyres may get damaged on such trips due to puncture, may get under-inflated, may wear out, may in some cases burst, loose grip, and thus can risk your life. You may need the help of repair or replacement. Sometimes the engine may run out and you may face problems with air-conditioning. Below are some tips to ensure a safe drive:-
- Take your vehicle for inspection or service before the trip: It is recommended to take the vehicle for a car service and get it inspected thoroughly before you take it out for a long drive. Ask the mechanic to check the engine, the battery, the tyres, the wheels, and the air-conditioner working thoroughly. Ensure that all these are in perfect shape.
- At the service centre does ask for a wheel alignment check so that you have a straight and perfect drive. Take the vehicle out for a test drive to ensure that the wheels are properly aligned.
- Check for tyre balancing and ensure that the tyres are in perfect shape. Check out for tyre wear and tear, if needed get them replaced or repaired. Get the tyre properly inflated.
- Get an extra tyre and tools for tyre replacement in case of an emergency. Affording a new tyre is an extra burden as generally, premium brand tyres are very costly. One can rely on other budget tyre brands like Yatone Tyres.
- These tyres are known for their quality and are cost-effective options for the extra tyre. These tyres come under various categories suitable for mud and snow roads, summer roads, etc. One can purchase these tyres from reputed tyre Coventry. You can even go for a perfect summer tyre made for summer road surfaces.
- High temperatures of summer require the air conditioner of the cars to work properly and this along with continuous drive puts a load on the car battery. Ensure that these are in the perfect state before you take out your vehicle.
- Always carry coolant and distilled water.
- Ensure safety belts, lights, and mirrors are working properly.
- Carry with you emergency safety kits and keep contact number of emergency service vehicles or service centre in case of need.
In hot conditions engine overheating takes place. The engine overheating is also due to low coolant which fails to dissipate the heat properly. The lower levels of coolant can be due to cooling system leaks or driving for a longer time with more usage of the air conditioner. If you face such condition while driving on your trip, doe the following:
- Switch off air condition
- Always carry coolant and distilled water. Remove the radiator cap and cool by pouring water in the coolant tank. Be careful while doing this.
- If you are caught up in traffic, avoid hitting the brake pedal which generates heat.
- If possible park the car, and rev the car engine. When you do so, the flow of air and water takes place in the radiator which cools the engine
- If nothing is manageable call the mobile fitting and emergency repair unit.
To have an enjoyable car trip, take care of all the above tips, and ensure you have a safe and happy journey.