Many people wait until vehicle servicing to check their working components and ensure everything is functioning properly. If you think about how frequently you drive your car or truck, you’ll realize daily maintenance and inspection should be standard practices to upkeep your vehicle. It’s important to know how to make sure your vehicle is road ready, so you’ll never be stuck with car trouble.
Lights and Electrical Check
Your vehicle’s electrical system is a crucial component, and you can check it daily. Your vehicle won’t run without it, and driving could prove to be hazardous if your car’s lighting system is faulty. You can’t see in the dark without working headlights. If it’s overcast early in the morning, you’ll need your fog lights. If other drivers can’t see your turn signal or brake lights, you might cause a collision.
Inspecting Your Belts and Hoses
A car’s engine has many different components, some of which can only be accessed by a mechanic or someone with the right knowledge and equipment to inspect them properly. You can do simple checks on standard components like hoses and belts. Make sure they are connected firmly and don’t have any holes or leaks. If either of your belts are squeaking or sound out of sync, then they need an adjustment or a replacement.
Assess Fluids and Filters
Prioritize checking the compartment holding the air filter and remove any dust and debris it might catch on the road. Daily cleaning will keep your filter clear and prevent you from buying a new one every time you have your vehicle serviced.
Fluids are important for engines, as they need fluids to stay lubricated and operate smoothly. Certain engine fluids can also prevent the machinery from overheating.
Look at Brakes and Tires
Your car’s internal components may be up to snuff while driving, but the external components are equally as important. Your tires and brakes give your car momentum. Making sure the brakes are functional and the tires are clear of damage puts you one more step ahead of vehicle maintenance.
Overall Inspection
Finally, you’ll want to do a once-over of your entire vehicle to ensure everything is still intact. The integrity of your vehicle’s body could mean the difference between replacing or repairing your bumper or windshield, depending on any damages and how it functions.
If you take the time to check all of your vehicle’s components inside and out, you can be sure you’ll always drive safely. This guide is a basic instruction on how to make sure your vehicle is road ready. You’ll want to make these checks before getting out on the road to ensure your safety and that of others.
