Six car care tips for an enjoyable National Day road trip

A list of six preventative car maintenance tips to help reduce road trip stress.

Road trip season kicks into high gear during this time of the year in UAE as families and friends pack up and head off for staycations and weekend getaways to enjoy the cooler weather across the country.
With the ongoing UAE National Day long weekend, an abundance of both long and short haul road trip options arises, such as travelling down the UAE-Oman stretch; or cross-city travelling within the country; the options are endless.
ACDelco, the American automotive spare parts and services brand, has compiled a list of six preventative car maintenance tips to help reduce road trip stress.
1. Take Time: Setting aside time before the trip is recommended to check the vehicle's belts, hoses, brakes, lights, engine oil, cabin air filter and wiper blades. It is also important to check the vehicle's Owner Manual and lookout for a schedule for suggested maintenance timing.

2. Check liquid levels: Unchecked liquid levels may lead to an unexpected breakdown. Check the vehicle's transmission fluid, power steering fluid and coolant fluid.

3. Prepare for the unexpected: Ensure there are working flashlights with extra batteries, emergency reflectors and a first-aid kit in case of unexpected incidents. Also, make sure your windshield wipers are working properly and in good shape, to ensure the visibility of the road is clear in case of rain.

4. Check Tyres: Maintaining appropriate pressure in all tyres, including the spare tyre is important. Both underinflated and overinflated tires may lead to poor handling, unusual wear and reduced fuel economy.

5. Engine oil check: You might be required to change the grade of the engine oil used. The oil grade can change over time, so the Owner's Manual might recommend using a thicker grade of engine oil. Regular oil changes may help keep the vehicle running smoothly and help maintain fuel efficiency - crucial for any long road trips.

6. Test Drive: Rolling down the windows, driving around the block a few times and listening to the vehicle is essential. Doing this at least a few days before the planned departure date will help hear any an unusual sound that could be a sign of potential brake, suspension or chassis problems.