A few days before you leave on that road trip, make sure your car is trip ready with a quick inspection of its key components. Of course, if you've noticed anything unusual about your car's performance, now is the time to have it looked at by a professional.
Check all the fluids. Get out your owner's manual and look under the hood. Be sure the antifreeze, engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission fluids and windshield washer solvent are all topped off.
Visually inspect hoses and belts under the hood looking for any signs of wear and tear. Most hoses and belts will need to be replaced by a mechanic unless you are mechanically inclined yourself. Better to have them replaced now than when you are a hundred miles from home.
Inspect the battery for acid leaks, cracks or corrosion. Most batteries will last between two to five years; if your battery is on the old side you may want to have it replaced before going on your trip.
Measure your tire pressure using a tire gauge. While you're at it, inspect the tread. One rule of thumb is that you should be able to insert a penny in the treads. If the tread is worn, or showing uneven wear, bulges or bald spots you'll need to have them checked.
Make sure your spare tire and jack are operable. There's nothing worse than needing your spare tire and finding out that it's flat. Take it out before your trip to ensure that it's in good shape and that you have all the tools you'll need to change it. If you don't know how to change a tire, now is a good time to learn.
Load up your emergency kit. Be prepared for an emergency situation in an unfamiliar place by packing or restocking your car emergency kit.
