Article
6 THINGS TO CHECK BEFORE HITTING THE ROAD THESE HOLIDAYS
2021-12-15
6 things to check before hitting the road these holidays…
1. Tyre pressure
2. Spare wheel & tools
3. Wheel alignment
4. Wheel balancing
5. Brakes
6. Battery terminal connections
TYRE PRESSURE
While most people check their tyre pressures before embarking on a long journey, many vehicle owners don’t make adjustments to account for payload. If your vehicle is heavily laden with passengers and/or holiday essentials, your tyre pressures should be adjusted per the manufacturer’s recommendation for a heavy load.
SPARE WHEEL & TOOLS
Let’s face it, very few of us check our spare wheel on a regular basis. Meaning, the day you need the extra tyre, is the day it will invariably be underinflated.
On that note, make sure you check your spare tyre’s air pressure before leaving on a long journey; and include your vehicle’s jack, wheel spanner, and any other necessary tools in the inspection.
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Aside from causing uneven tyre wear, incorrect wheel alignment may make your journey more tiring as you must continuously correct the vehicle’s steering.
WHEEL BALANCING
Nothing destroys a tyre's driveability – and longevity – like an unbalanced wheel. This is especially true for 4x4 and SUV owners with all-terrain or mud-terrain tyres. In these cases, an unbalanced wheel will unquestionably lead to irreversible tread damage, excessive noise, and reduced tyre life.
BRAKES
Although your vehicle’s braking system should be inspected by a professional, an anecdotal test can be conducted by applying firm braking pressure at highway speeds.
If you notice any signs of brake fade, vibrations, and/or shuddering, you should have your vehicle’s braking system serviced – before leaving on a long trip.
BATTERY TERMINAL CONNECTIONS
Battery terminal corrosion, or a loose connection, are two leading causes of vehicle hard starting. A quick inspection will give you peace of mind that your battery and charging system is working correctly.
Start by “wiggling” the battery terminal to determine if there’s free play or movement. Then, check for signs of corrosion in the form of a white-blueish powder surrounding the battery’s terminals. If either symptom is presented, have your battery serviced by a specialist before hitting the road.