by Art Heberger

Created on: June 07, 2010

With a few precautions you can put your mind at ease and prevent common problems.

Don't wait for the last minute!

Just in Case

If you don't already have a roadside assistance company, like AAA, they are good to have for those unforeseen problems. They’ll change your tire, jump start your vehicle, unlock your doors, bring you gas or tow your vehicle.

One month before

Make sure any major repairs are done. Either get under the vehicle yourself (If you can do it safely) or get your mechanic to put it up on a lift and do an inspection. This way you’ll have plenty of time for repairs, if there are any problems.

Tires

Make sure your tires are at the proper pressure. Low pressure causes extra heat to buildup that can cause a blowout at high speeds. Take a good look at the tires, check the sidewalls and tread very carefully for foreign objects, cuts or bubbles. To check the tread wear, put a penny, with Lincoln's head pointing down, in one the treads. If you can see the space above Lincoln's head, you need new tires. Check where the tread meets the sidewall inside and out if they are wearing more on one side you need a wheel alignment too.

Spare

Check your spare, so you're sure it is inflated to the proper pressure. Make sure that your lug wrench, lock-nut-key (if you have them) and jack are in the trunk and working properly.

Drive belts

If you've never had one go on the road, you don't want to start now. Make sure they're not loose, cracked or glazed. If so, they need to be replaced.

Coolant

If your trip will take you to or through places that are a lot warmer or colder than where you live, check your the coolant's mixture of antifreeze and water, so your cooling system won't freeze or overheat. If the coolant needs to be changed, do it now.

Glove compartment

Have your owner's manual, registration and insurance card in there and make sure your registration or insurance isn't going to expire. You may want to carry them in your wallet in case your vehicle is stolen. If you don't have the owner's manual, check to see if you can get a replacement from a dealer or down load it if it is available on the manufacturers web site.

One week before

If your vehicle is close to being due for an oil change or other maintenance, get it done now.

Windshield wiper blades

You know it's going to rain at least one day on your trip, if you have the slightest doubt, change them.

Air filter

A dirty air filter will reduce your vehicle's fuel economy. It's too easy and inexpensive

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