When you’re moving cross-country, it makes sense to put your vehicle to use. Shipping costs for vehicles can be expensive, especially if you already shelled out money on interstate moving companies. Furthermore, if you don’t drive your vehicle, you and your family members will have to pay an additional cost for plane or train tickets. Using your car to get across country can save you money in the long run. However, it is important to make sure that your vehicle is up to the task. Use these five DIY check-ups from Cheap Sacramento Movers (www.cheapsacramentomovers.com) to make sure your vehicle is prepared to hit the road.
1. Inspect Your Tires
Before traveling, you should take time to do a thorough review of your tires. A blow-out on the interstate can cause major problems during your trip. First, check that your tires are inflated to the appropriate pressure. Be sure to adjust the pressure to account for the increased load caused by packed items. Also, review the tread of each tire to make sure you’ll get proper traction on the road. If you see cracking or balding on the tires, you may want to invest in a new set before driving. Good tires on your vehicle are of the utmost importance for safe driving.
2. Pay Attention to Your Timing Belt
The timing belt, or serpentine belt, is part of your car’s backbone. If it breaks, your car will not work. When traveling long distances, it is important to make sure this belt is in good condition. There are no warning lights or outward signs that a timing belt is failing. Thus, it is crucial that you check the belt’s condition before you hit the road. You may want to have it inspected by a mechanic for a professional opinion. You are better off replacing a timing belt that shows signs of wear or cracking. Don’t wait until it’s too late!
3. Resolve Battery Issues
You can’t afford to get stuck with a dead battery in the middle of nowhere. Make sure your battery is carrying a full charge beforehand. Also, check for other problems such as corrosion or leaking. Your neighborhood auto parts chain can help you test the battery. If you see any signs of problems, purchase a replacement right away.
4. Check the Brakes
Your vehicle will need a reliable set of brakes when traversing the cross-country terrain. If your car hasn’t undergone a recent brake job, make sure to check the status of the brakes. Signs such as squealing noises, strange vibrations or moderate braking indicate that there is a problem. If this is the case, you’ll need to get a brake job before the move.
5. Examine Your Lighting Components
Finally, you should make sure that your vehicle’s front and rear lights are functioning correctly. Traveling across country means that you’ll probably spend a lot of time driving at night. As such, you’ll need effective lighting to remain safe. Activate your lights and walk around the vehicle to see if you notice any burnouts. Additionally, check whether your headlights are cloudy and need restoration. Lighting is your best friend on the dark, interstate roads. Don’t take it lightly!
Ready For The Road
If you follow the steps above, you can feel secure that your vehicle will get you to your destination. Once you arrive, you should perform these checks all over again. Driving thousands of miles can put a huge strain on your vehicle. Make sure to do a post-drive check-up to assess whether any damage has occurred. Having a successful road-trip means nothing if your vehicle breaks down a few days after you arrive.