10 Amazing Things to Know About Your Vehicle
We all love and live to travel in the world around us. To make our trips full of enjoyment and memorable we sometimes forget some really important things about the vehicles in which we sit to travel. Don’t forget to top up your fuel tanks as the fuel prices and availability are variable in different places. Also, you should have a fire extinguisher in your vehicle to combat the unknown or forbidden circumstances. Below mentioned are some really important checks you must run before heading for a long trip.
1. Battery and headlights
One of the most important things without which you can’t even think of travelling at night. Without vision nothing is possible. Therefore, it is important to properly check the battery and lights before leaving out for a long drive. If there is an issue with the lights and battery, you should only replace them as per the vehicle compatibility. Because there are chances, they might not work properly at uneven conditions.
2. Check Tyres and their Pressures
All the parts of automobiles are important but tyres are the ones because of which your vehicles go rolling and sometimes flying on the road. It is highly recommended to have only vehicle compatible tyres. You must have seen people out there on the road with tyres trying to peep out through the sideline body of their vehicle. They may create problems sometimes while on the road. Also, check if the tyres are worn out or some damage is there as they can lead to disastrous accidents or even deaths. Moreover, by keeping your tyres properly inflated with recommended pressure, you may experience a comfortable and a good mileage ride.
3. Check Brakes
There have been innumerable accidents you must have heard due to failure of brakes. This is something which you should get checked whenever you go for a basic car servicing. Worn out brakes are not visible from outside but there are some signs like crackling, creepy sound or maybe sounds like metal-on-metal dragging which indicates that there is a need for replacement of brakes. You should never ignore such indications and get them fixed from the nearest possible mechanic. And especially if you are travelling to some hilly areas there is a high possibility of brake failure if they are already in a worn-out state.
4. Warning Lights
In your vehicle, there are certain warning lights which indicate the real time condition of the system working. For example, you have indicators for brake light, ABS, engine, seat belt, battery etc. When you turn on the ignition of your vehicle you see certain lights in the dashboard system. If any of the system has a problem the light of the same will blink continuously. This gives a very easy way to diagnose your vehicle. Therefore, you can see your nearest or maybe dearest mechanic to get it fixed.
5. Engine Oil
It is like a lifeline of the vehicle. If your vehicle engine runs with a good and clean engine oil, then you won’t have to face any difficulties while on road. Generally, people tend to ignore the replacement of new engine oil as they think it will run for some more kilometres. But it is not the case for all cars. You need to be very precise in oil change. Especially if you have an old car, then you should get it changed after almost 7000-8000 kms or 4 months, whichever is sooner. You must be knowing that the engine is the most expensive thing to be replaced or repaired in your car, so you don’t have to be negligent in this case. Also, you should only get the oil which is compatible with your car model number.
6. Fan Belt and Hoses
They are the most ignored parts of the vehicles. Whenever you plan to go out on a trip or vacation, you should open your car bonnet and see all the pipe hoses and fan belt if they are in a good condition. If there is any leakage or worn-out pipe, then you should get it replaced from your mechanic. There is a huge system of wiring and pipes which a car owner may or may not understand but for a basic checkup, you can see the physical condition of the pipes which will surely give you an idea. And for the fan belt you may have to peep a bit inside the bonnet to see if there are cuts on the inner linings of the fan belt. If there is a sign of the same, consider replacing it before moving out.
7. Spare Wheel
People tend to ignore having an extra because of many reasons. Sometimes it is because of the aftermarket modifications like sound system or other things which steal the space of the spare wheel. And, people think it’s of no use but it is a wrong practice and can lead you to a spot where not just you but everyone would be helpless. So, it’s a good practice to always have a spare wheel while travelling and especially when on a trip. Also, you can have an air pumping machine which is of a very compact size and some basic equipment with which you must replace and monitor your tyres and their pressures respectively.
8. Top up Windshield fluid and all others
For a driver, the most important thing is clear visibility while driving. And sometimes you may need to clean your windshield and this is the use of Windshield fluid. Especially while travelling in the rainy season, after a time the wiper starts scratching your windshield so it’s the time when you need that soapy fluid. Don’t forget to check the engine oil with the help of the available indicator on the engine bay. The level of the oil should be in between the minimum and maximum. Also, you should check the brake oil and top up if needed. Coolant should also be filled if it lacks, it keeps the engine cool.
9. First Aid Box
It is a must have basic amenity in each vehicle. At present only 1 vehicle out of 10 will have a first aid box which is actually a very wrong practice to follow. It is something which you should have at home, office, car etc. You never know when you may get sick and need the first aid box. While on the road there are a lot of people who have died because of the unavailability of a first aid box in their vehicle. There should be an awareness drive, especially in this case where you should help and make people understand how it is important to have a basic medical kit while travelling on the road.
10. All legal documents including driver’s license.
It is one of the most important things to carry in the glove box of your vehicle so that you can present the required documents when asked. Pollution Certificate is for the record that the vehicle you are using is not emitting any extra harmful gas which may not be healthy for others. And for the insurance copy, it is something which gives you wings when you get stuck with your vehicle. As per your insurance the insurer company may give you claims and help as per your policy. RC is the legal document which gives a proof that the car you are driving is the car you own. And most importantly you should have a valid driving license which enables you to drive and prove that you are fit for driving.
After the rapid growth of automobile industries in the present world, it has become easy for all of you to travel long distances in a short span of time. Therefore, it is recommended not to over speed as it is harmful for you and for the people travelling on the road. If you feel sleepy or unwell while driving, you should take proper rest or replace the driver. Wishing you all a happy, safe and comfortable drive and ride. Also, one of the most important things to note is that one should not indulge in any sort of conflicts in case of any accidents. Remember sometimes you may bump into anybody’s car because of your fault. Discuss a necessary settlement or contact the nearest police station for help. Share it with more people to avoid unseen circumstances.
You can also read and learn 10 Amazing Reasons of Travelling.
