Few things in this world can beat the fun experience of going on a long road trip with your besties.

If you are going to use your car for the trip, there are certain things that you should be aware of. Just like how you need to prepare for the long journey ahead, even your car needs some preventive measures that will make sure that your vehicle does not betray you in the middle of the trip.

Don’t know how to prep your car for your next road trip? Here are some simple car-care tips that you can follow:

• Do an overall check of car

Although there are gas stations almost everywhere today, it is best to get your car checked beforehand for prevention and safety. Check if your car makes unnecessary noises, has any worn-out tire, or broken brakes. Now is the time to fix all these little problems before it’s too late and you have already hit the road.

• Replace the air filters

When you are getting your car checked, don’t forget to monitor the condition of the air filters. A clogged air filter will put a halt on the power of your car. You can clean the air filters on your own by following the steps mentioned in the car’s manual or seeking for car-care tips from a professional.

• Pull the Brakes

Before leaving for the road, check the brake system of your truck. Make sure that the brake fluid is filled up till the mark and the fluid’s color is normal. If you have not flushed your car’s brake fluid for over a year or two, the liquid might have turned a rusty maple-syrup color. In such cases, it is best to get your brake fluid refilled.

• Check the belts

Make sure you open the car’s hood and check the insides. If there is any torn, worn-out belt that is popping out fiber cords, get it replaced. If your car makes noise every time you start it after stopping at a signal, then one of the engine belts might be loose. Get this belt fixed to ensure a smooth trip.

• Survival kit

Prepare a survival kit which has all the essential things you will need in case of an emergency like a phone charger, medical kit, car-care toolkit, some food supply, and water.

• Inspect the antifreeze level

The engine coolant or the antifreeze level should always be between low and high. If the coolant level is below the low mark, be sure to refill it. In such cases, don’t forget to first check for any leakage as it is a common phenomenon.

• Always carry your car’s manual with you

Since it would be a long trip, you need all the help you can get. Keep your car’s manual handy in the glove compartment so that you can read the car-care guide and try fixing your car if it breaks down. The manual has all the essential car-care information, including how to change the tires or refill the car fluids. The manual also helps when you want to jumpstart your car after the battery dies or the engine heats up.

It is essential to maintain your car to ensure not just a hassle-free travel but also the safety of your group and others on the road. With the abovementioned car care tips you can make sure that your car stays in good shape even while it gets sun drenched.

So have you already tuned your car up for your long-awaited summer road trip?