Pre-Trip Inspections: The Most Important Checks You Might Be Overlooking

If you’re like most drivers, do a quick pre-trip inspection every time you get in your car. But are you doing all the necessary checks? Here we’ll review some of the most commonly overlooked items during pre-trip inspections. You can help keep yourself and your passengers safe on the road by checking these things each time.

Emergency Kit

Your emergency kit is one of the most critical yet often overlooked items for a pre-trip inspection. An emergency kit should include essential items such as jumper cables, a flashlight, tire-changing tools, and a first aid kit. It can also be useful to have a few bottles of water in case you get stuck somewhere or need to stay hydrated while waiting for help.

Wheel Lug Nuts

Another essential item to check during a pre-trip inspection is your wheel lug nuts. These nuts keep your wheels securely attached to your car and should be checked every time you get in before taking off. Ensure they’re correctly tightened and that none have come loose or become damaged. In addition, you should also check the condition of your tires and ensure they have enough tread to provide proper grip on the road.

Fluids

Another essential item to inspect is the fluids in your car. Make sure the oil, coolant, and brake fluid are at the proper levels so your engine can run smoothly while you’re on the road. If any of these fluids are low, it’s essential to top them off before you take them off. In addition, you should also check the transmission fluid and power steering fluid to make sure these are at their proper levels as well.

Lights

Finally, you should also check your car’s lights before taking off. Ensure all your headlights, turn signals, brake lights, and taillights are in working order. If any of these lights are burnt out, be sure to replace them before you start driving. This will ensure that other drivers can see you on the road and hopefully prevent any misunderstandings or accidents from occurring. By taking a few moments to review these items during your pre-trip inspection, you can rest assured knowing that your car is in safe, working condition before you take off. Not only will this help keep you and your passengers safe, but it can also save you time and money in the long run.…