Do It Yourself Vehicle Check List

Before you head out on the open road for your summer trip, here are is a vehicle check list that everyone can do on their own.

• Check the fluids. Checking the oil, coolant, brake fluid and windscreen wash levels may help you avoid an accident or an unnecessary breakdown. Also check the levels for the clutch fluid (often the same as brake fluid) and power steering fluid (if fitted to your car). Refer to your owner's manual to see where fluid reservoirs are located. 
• Check tire air pressure. These should be printed in the owner's manual or a sticker on the body where the driver's door shuts. The pressure marked on the side of the tire is the max, which must not be exceeded. Also, don't forget to check your spare tire pressure. Often neglected, not doing so will turn a bad time into a worse one if the spare is unusable.
• Get the oil changed before you leave if it's almost time for a change. A long trip can put additional stress on your motor. Don't think that adding extra oil by yourself will work like an oil change, because that does not get rid of the sludge from old used oil. You may not realize this due to the fact that you are continuously adding new, cleaner oil which makes it appear as if it is clean oil. When changing your car's oil, you must always replace the oil filter at the same time.
• Check your tire wear by using a penny or tread gauge. A long trip can put additional stress on your motor. Don't think that adding extra oil by yourself will work like an oil change, because that does not get rid of the sludge from old used oil. You may not realize this due to the fact that you are continuously adding new, cleaner oil which makes it appear as if it is clean oil. When changing your car's oil, you must always replace the oil filter at the same time.
• Check your air filters. A plentiful supply of clean air to your engine improves the vehicle's performance and efficiency. Also check and change your car's cabin (pollen) filter if it has one, as these are often ignored in services and, if worn, adversely affect the quality of air in the cabin.
• Wash your car. At the minimum, clean the windows of your car for the best visibility. Also check the condition of your wiper blades and replace them if necessary.
• Check your lights and signals are working correctly. You may need the help of another person for this. Sit in the car, turn on each light or signal and ask your friend to tell you if it is working or not. Replace bulbs as necessary. Also consider carrying spare bulbs on a road trip (at least one for each light example. headlights, indicators, tail lights, reverse lights). Changing bulbs (especially front) can take time in modern cars, so don't leave this to the last minute if bulbs need changing.
• Ensure that you have all emergency equipment inside your car, and that everything works. Emergency equipment includes: an up-to-date map, cell phone, spare tire (alternatively a puncture repair kit, although this is not ideal) and emergency tools (e.g. flashlight, screwdrivers, pliers and an adjustable spanner). Although usually absent; flares, medical kits and fire extinguishers may come in handy in worse-case scenarios. 
• Check for recalls. You may also want check to see if there are any recalls open on your car while you are at the shop. You can check your recall status online at safercar.gov or call your local dealership.