Engine oil should be checked regularly. Internal engine problems may not cause the engine to use much oil when driving around town but can cause oil to be used quickly when driving on the highway. If you are unfortunate enough to find yourself driving a vehicle that uses oil quickly, carry extra oil to keep it full. Check for leaks beneath the vehicle and have serious ones repaired. If the engine leaks one drop of oil every kilometer, the engine could run dangerously low on oil in less than a few hundred kilometers. If equipped with a dipstick, check the automatic transmission oil for particles or burnt odor several days before leaving on holidays. If you find any, take it to your service shop for further diagnosis. By removing the pan and filter, a transmission specialist can often diagnose future transmission problems by the amount and type of debris found. It is cheaper to get it fixed at home than on the road. Don’t forget other fluid levels such as the power steering, windshield washer, and brake fluid in the master cylinder. Low brake fluid levels may indicate a leak or worn brake pads. Don’t take a chance on your brakes. Some shops will do a free inspection. Any problems they find could save your life. If you inspect the brakes yourself, pay extra attention to the brake hose condition. Cracks or checks on the hose can indicate a potential brake hose failure. Don’t take chances – have them replaced. Have the brake fluid flushed too. It may not be in the owner’s manual but replacing brake fluid every two years will remove moisture from the brake system to improve braking performance and protect expensive brake system components. Pack an emergency travel kit as well. A flashlight, duct tape, flares or an emergency sign, some simple tools and additional clothing and water should be part of your travel kit. Packing one will ensure you will never need it! Finally, be sure to check your vehicle before you travel. Service departments get extra busy approaching summer travel season so plan ahead and enjoy your summer.
93
Powered by FlippingBook