How to Prepare Your Nissan for a Road Trip
While planning a long road trip can be exciting, it can also be stressful once you consider everything you must do before departing. You may be asking yourself if you’ve packed everything. Have sleeping arrangements been made? Do I have a quality route planned that's scenic and efficient in getting to the desired destination? However, perhaps the most critical question you should ask yourself is if your vehicle is in a road trip-ready condition. Fortunately, we have done the work for you. Read below as we break down the top six things you should check on your Nissan before taking a road trip.
Top Six To-Do’s Before Taking a Road Trip in Your Nissan
1. Check Your Oil and Fluids
Ensuring your oil and other critical fluids are at the correct levels is vital. The oil keeps the engine parts in your Nissan lubricated, reducing friction and helping you keep the engine cool. Keeping your engine cool minimizes the risk of overheating, which can cause a breakdown and force you to the side of the road. Before setting off on your next adventure, change your oil, especially if you’re getting close to the recommended time for the next service. You should also check the brake fluid, transmission fluid, coolant, and windshield washer fluid while you are there.
Schedule an oil change at Nissan of Marietta!
2. Tires
Tires play a critical role in the overall safety of your road trip. Ensure you check the pressure of all tires, including the spare, on your Nissan. Take the time to adjust the air pressure according to the manufacturer’s specifications and inspect the tires for any signs of wear, cracking, or other potential damage. If one of your tires looks damaged, it may warrant a replacement, which can be taken care of at our tire center.
3. Brakes
While brakes might sound like a prominent component to check on your vehicle, they are still often overlooked. Brakes, for obvious reasons, are also paramount to the safety of your road trip. Before taking off on your adventure, check for any signs of brake deterioration, such as squeaking, grinding, or an increased time to stop. You should also check your brake pads, rotors, and fluid to ensure they are in good condition. If you think that your brakes might need servicing, schedule service with us!
4. Emergency Kit
It’s always a good idea to be prepared for any situation, especially on a road trip. Packing an emergency kit that includes items such as a flashlight, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, a blanket, and water is an excellent first step to ensure you and your passengers are equipped to handle difficult situations out of your control. It’s also a good idea to ensure that your Nissans roadside assistance information is up to date and easily accessible.
5. Battery Check
It’s never a good time when your battery dies and you are stranded in unfamiliar territory. The good news is that it is possible to avoid this situation. Before leaving for a trip, test your battery at Nissan of Marietta to ensure ultimate safety and peace of mind.
6. Entertainment and Navigation
Once you have completed all of the necessary safety checks on your Nissan, it is time to plan for the long hours ahead. Ensure that your Nissans entertainment system is up to date and working properly. Have your favorite playlists, audiobooks, and podcasts loaded up to keep you and your passengers entertained on the road. Before backing out of your driveway, ensure your vehicle or smartphone's GPS is loaded up with your directions so you can arrive at your first stop on time.
Take Your Next Road Trip in a New Vehicle from Nissan of Marietta
Whether you are venturing northwest to Nashville, east to Savannah, or south to Florida, we want to ensure you get there safely. By following our recommended vehicle checks before your departure, you can drive with the peace of mind of knowing you are fully prepared for your journey. If you would like to schedule a comprehensive check-up before your next trip, use the link below!
Schedule Comprehensive Check-Up
FAQs
How can I make sure my battery won’t die on the road?
To make sure that your car battery doesn’t die on the road, it’s essential that you regularly drive your car for at least 20-30 minutes to keep it active. It’s also important to have your battery components checked for corrosion and turn off all lights and accessories when leaving your car parked.
How can I avoid car troubles in hot or cold weather?
When it is hotter, it is important to park in the shade, check your coolant levels, use the air conditioning, and monitor your tire pressure.
In colder weather, you should check your battery, utilize the proper oil viscosity for cold weather, keep your gas tank at least half full, and let your car run for a few minutes before driving.
Should I consider a professional vehicle check-up before my road trip?
Yes, you should definitely consider getting a professional vehicle check-up before long road trips. A check-up can help to identify potential issues with your car that could lead to a breakdown while traveling.
24/7 roadside assistance is available with Nissan Security Plus+ Warranty!