5 Essential Car Checks Before a Long Road Trip

1. Check Your Tires

Inspect all five tires (including the spare) for tread depth and proper inflation. Under-inflated tires run hot and are more likely to blow out at highway speeds. Keep pressures at the manufacturer's recommended level, which you'll find on the driver's door jamb.

2. Inspect Fluids

Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Low coolant is a leading cause of overheating on long drives, especially in Philippine summer heat. Top up before you leave.

3. Test Your Brakes

Listen for squealing or grinding and feel for a spongy pedal. If the brake pedal travels lower than usual or the car pulls to one side when braking, have it inspected before your trip.

4. Lights and Electrical

Have a helper walk around the car while you test headlights, turn signals, brake lights, and hazard lights. A single burnt bulb can become a safety issue at night or in heavy rain.

5. Wipers and Battery

Old wiper blades leave streaks and reduce visibility in sudden downpours. Test your battery's cranking strength too — a weak battery is the most common reason for a no-start after a rest stop.

Before any long trip, it's worth booking a quick multi-point inspection at our Trece Martires service center. We'll catch the small things now so they don't become big things on the road.