Open roads, blue skies, and the wind in your hair; there is nothing quite like a road trip! In Australia, nearly a million people will have gone on a road trip during the spring and summer months this year alone. One thing any prospective roadtripper will tell you, though, is that no road trip is truly set for success without proper planning.
Whether it’s a quick, half-day beach trip down the coast or a full-on weeklong excursion through the bush, you’ll only go as far as your motor vehicle will allow you to. If your car hasn’t been taken on a long-haul or off-road excursion for a long time, then you should consider a pre-road trip car servicing or inspection.
You will save yourself peace of mind and future headaches by knowing your vehicle will carry you to your destination quickly, comfortably, and above all, safely.
You shouldn’t leave for your road trip without checking that your car is up for the task, just like how you wouldn’t go out on the sea before checking if your boat is seaworthy or jumping out of a plane without making sure your parachute is working. Pre-trip car servicing is essential to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive, reliable on the road, and ready for the journey ahead.
Long drives can put extra strain on your car’s engine, brakes, tyres, and other components, so having a qualified mechanic inspect and service your vehicle beforehand can help prevent unexpected breakdowns on the road or costly repairs away from home. Routine checks and regular log book servicing can make all the difference between a smooth trip and a stressful roadside emergency.
Servicing also helps improve fuel efficiency and overall performance, allowing your car to run more smoothly and use less fuel over long distances. From venturing off-road in the Dandenong Ranges or braving bumper-to-bumper traffic on the Hume Highway, pre-trip servicing can give you peace of mind knowing your vehicle is in top condition and that you and your passengers can all travel safely and confidently wherever you choose to go.
Before embarking on your next road trip adventure, make sure your vehicle’s systems are in working condition. Use the following checklist during your pre-trip car inspection and discuss any issues you find with your local mechanic.
Check your car’s engine oil, coolant, transmission, and brake fluid levels to ensure everything is topped up and clean. Likewise, check your radiator is in good working condition, too.
These are all vital for smooth operation as well as preventing overheating. If you are suspicious of any fluid leaks, high temperatures, or simply need a standard oil change, then book your car in for a standard mechanical repair service to top up your fluids and address any developing issues.
Inspect your tyre pressure and tread depth as well as the condition of your spare tyre. Proper tyre maintenance improves safety, handling, and fuel efficiency. Check for any deep scratches or damage on your tyres that could compromise your safety while driving.
You should also check on your wheel alignment. Wheels and tyres can get misaligned over time, and an intense road trip could exacerbate any existing problems brewing in your undercarriage.
Test your car battery for charge and check that all exterior and interior lights are functioning normally. Safely clean up any battery acid corrosion and replace your car battery if it has passed its expiry date, usually between three and five years.
Make sure your headlights and brake lights are also all operational and easy to see. Good visibility is crucial, especially for driving at night or in the early mornings. Replace any bulbs you can and consider booking in for a diagnostic service to gain insight about all the other electrical systems in your vehicle.
Before going on a long drive, you should always inspect your brakes for wear and tear as well as the stability of your suspension. Both of these systems are essential for safety and control during long drives.
If you are struggling to brake reliably and effortlessly, then you should get yourself booked in for brake repair and servicing as soon as possible. Your suspension helps to keep much of the heavy-duty parts in your car protected from shock and abrasion, so if you need a suspension repair then it is essential to get it sorted before going on a road trip, especially if off-road or going through anywhere wet or dusty.
The last thing you want to be on your road trip is hot and sweaty while behind the wheel! Ensure your air conditioning system and cabin filters are all working properly. This will keep you and your passengers comfortable through the duration of your trip and maintain good air quality.
The interior of Australia can get dangerously hot in the warmer times of year, and an unreliable air conditioning system can truly lead to life-threatening complications if unchecked. So if you plan to go on any road trips up north or in the desert, then you ought to book in for a regular air conditioning service to make sure you don’t overheat while driving.
Replace any and all worn-out wiper blades to maintain clear visibility in rainy or dusty conditions. You may be offered this as part of your regular log book servicing or roadworthy checks.
Be sure to also top up your washer fluid so you’re ready to clean off any obstructions that may hit your windshield. Keep a reserve bottle of wiper fluid in your car, just in case!
If your pre-road trip inspection passes the test, then you’re free to hit the road! But if your vehicle falls short on any of the parameters listed above, then get in touch with our team of expert mechanic Airport West at S.S.C. Mechanics for a trustworthy and speedy vehicle servicing.
Your car will be roadworthy and ready before you know it!
At S.S.C. Mechanics, we’re committed to delivering exceptional automotive care built on trust, respect, and quality workmanship. As a proud family-owned business with decades of experience serving Melbourne Airport West and its surrounding communities, we understand the importance of reliable car service.
Our team provides honest advice, competitive pricing, and expert servicing using only genuine manufacturer parts and premium oils, ensuring your vehicle performs to dealership standards without the dealership price tag. Plus, with a 12-month warranty on all our services and repairs, you can hit the road with complete confidence knowing your vehicle, investment, and safety are all in good hands.
S.S.C Mechanics provides professional mechanical repair services for Melbourne’s north-west and surrounding areas. Based in Airport West, our customers come from various surrounding locations including:
Don’t let car troubles put the brakes on your next adventure. A quick pre-trip inspection can make all the difference between a smooth, stress-free drive and an unexpected series of roadside setbacks. At S.S.C. Mechanics, we’ll ensure your vehicle is safe and ready for any road trip, performing at its very best.
Book a pre-road trip car service near you today with our trusted team in Airport West and beyond. Call (03) 9338 9573 or book online to get your car checked, serviced, and ready for the open road ahead.
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