Quick car maintenance checks to do before your holiday trips

‘Twas the drive before Christmas, and all through the car… everything was checked! As exciting as holiday trips are, they can quickly become stressful if your car isn’t prepared for the road. A few simple checks can save you time, money, and headaches along the way. 

Making sure your car is in good condition keeps your holiday plans on track. A little effort now means fewer worries later. We want to deck the roads, not the repair shops, so here's a simple checklist to help you prepare.

Since we don't have reindeer and a sleigh, tires are the only part of your car that touches the road, so they need to be in good form. If your tires don’t have the right pressure, it can make your car harder to control and use more fuel. Use a pressure gauge to check if your tire pressure matches the recommended level in your car manual. Don’t forget to check the spare tire, so you’re prepared in case of an emergency.

Check the tread depth on your tires. If the grooves are too shallow or worn unevenly, the tires won’t grip the road well, especially in bad weather. Look for cracks or bulges, and replace the tires if you notice any issues. 

Fluids keep your car running smoothly, so it’s important to make sure they’re at the right levels. Start with the engine oil. Use the dipstick to check if the oil level is low or if the oil looks dirty. If needed, top it up or replace it to avoid engine problems. Coolant is also important, especially for long drives, as it helps keep the engine from overheating. Remember to check the brake fluid as well. If it’s low or dark, it’s time for a change.

A weak battery can leave you spending a silent night on the road, so checking it before your trip is a wise thing to do. Look at the battery terminals to make sure they’re clean and free from corrosion. You can use a voltmeter to check the battery charge, it should be between 12.4 and 12.7 volts when the car is off. If your battery is a few years old, it might be a good idea to have it tested by a mechanic.

Pay attention to how your car starts. If it cranks slower than usual, or worse, fails to start in one or two clicks, the battery might be losing power. It’s also a good idea to carry jumper cables in case of emergencies, but starting your trip with a healthy battery is the best way to avoid trouble.

Good visibility is non-negotiable, especially if you’ll be driving at night or in bad weather. Test all your lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals, to make sure they’re working. Replace any bulbs that are out and clean the lenses to improve brightness. Proper lighting helps you see the road and lets other drivers see you.Don’t forget to check your windshield wipers. If the blades are cracked or leave streaks, replace them. Test the washer fluid spray to make sure it’s working properly. 

Now before you dash through the roads for your holiday trip, check your brakes! Your brakes are one of the most important parts of your car. If you hear squealing or grinding when you press the pedal, it might mean the brake pads are worn. If the brakes feel soft or spongy, have them checked right away. You can also look at the brake rotors and pads. Smooth rotors and thick pads mean the brakes are in good condition. If you’re not sure, it’s better to have a professional check them. 

All is calm, and all is bright when your car’s in good shape! Santa’s not the only one prepping for the holiday trip. Preparing your vehicle for the holiday rush can save you from unexpected problems. Make holiday shopping easy, even for your next car. Visit AutoDeal.com.ph or download the AutoDeal app to browse cars anytime, anywhere. Available for iOS and Android—start exploring today and find a car that fits your needs.