How to Prepare a Car for a Road Trip

with Barbara Terry

Transcript: How to Prepare a Car for a Road Trip

I'm Barbara Terry for About.com Autos. Millions of Americans take a road trip every year. Let's discuss what mechanical issues you need to check out yourself or have a qualified mechanic check and some of the essential items to have in your car before venturing out to that favorite destination.

Check the Car's Oil

Let's pop the hood and check the main fluids that get your car running down the road. To properly check the oil you will need to pull the dipstick out. Wipe it off thoroughly. Put it back in, pull it out and read the cross-hatches on the dipstick.

Check the Car's Transmission Fluid

To check the transmission fluid you will need to do the same process, pull it out wipe it off; stick it back in and when you pull it back out you will have your proper reading.

Check the Radiator Fluid

Now let's check the radiator fluid, your radiator should always have a half antifreeze half water mix; you can see the level through your overflow.

Add Wiper Fluid Before the Trip

If you want to be able to keep safety on the freeway and be able to see clear out your windshield always make sure you have enough windshield wiper fluid in order to clear all of those dead bugs and road grime off your windshield.

Make Sure Tires Are in Working Order

You should also have your tire pressure checked or it is really easy to check it yourself, make sure to check all four tires.

Road Trip Packing Essentials

Next let's go over the items that you will want to have in your car for safety and essential use:

1. jumper cables for a dead or weak battery- yours or to help someone else's car in trouble
2. a gallon of water for a potential radiator issue, or for being parched in hot weather
3. safety road flares in case of a breakdown. There were over 3,000 deaths on the road last year from cars breaking down and not having the breakdown area safely secured
4. a can of fix a flat, for a quick, temporary fix to a flat tire
5. Quart of oil
6. flashlight with extra batteries
7. road maps to guide your way or to find a great short-cut
8. spare tire- and check its air pressure and condition before packing

Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit us on the Web at autos.about.com.

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