Not only can a pre-trip inspection help reduce chances of costly and possibly dangerous road trouble, it also provides an opportunity to have repairs made at home, by your local mechanic who knows the vehicle. While no inspection can guarantee that the car will perform perfectly during the trip, it will allow the driver to have a little extra piece of mind when they hear a strange noise traveling down the highway.
Before you set off on your trip it may be worth your time to do a quick 5-10 minute vehicle walk through, like a pilot performing his pre flight safety checks. It is a good idea to check all of your fluid levels including; engine coolant or antifreeze, engine oil, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, windshield washer fluid and brake fluid. You should also do a visual inspection of the vehicles hoses and belts. A belt that fails can affect the electrical system, air conditioning and power steering, as well as the engine cooling system. Cooling system hoses may deteriorate from within, so old hoses and clamps in marginal condition might need to be replaced.
Whether you are traveling at night or not it is still a good idea to check your vehicles lights. This includes the headlights in daytime running mode, as well as the high beams setting. Your turn signal indicators should be checked after the brake lights and reversing lights have been checked. The hazard lights should also be activated and just in case you are required to use them.
Finally, your attention should fall to the wipers, as you will not want to discover that they smear, streak, or chatter across your windshield when the first rain drops begin to fall.
For more information about the types of preventative vehicle services and vehicle checks that Rosstech Motor Vehicle Service offers, contact them at 905-853-6161 or visit their website at www.rosstechautomotive.com.