With the end of summer approaching and only a few weeks left, it’s important to prepare our vehicle for optimal performance. This ensures a safe and hassle-free journey by verifying that everything is in order. So, what are the crucial areas of the car that require thorough inspection?
When considering a summer-specific check-up, it’s essential to determine the right timing for it. If the next scheduled periodic maintenance is less than 2,000 kilometers away, it’s advisable to advance the appointment rather than waiting until the return. Even if the vehicle has recently undergone maintenance, it’s still beneficial to review these key areas before embarking on a trip.
Start with the tires
When preparing for a trip, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough inspection of your car’s condition. While some aspects can be visually inspected by yourself, there are more delicate areas that require the expertise of a professional workshop, such as checking liquid levels and the battery’s condition.
The first area to focus on is the shock absorbers, wheels, and brakes. These components play a critical role as they directly interact with the road surface. When examining the tires, visually inspect the tread’s condition and look for signs of excessive wear.
While the legal limit for tread depth is 1.6 millimeters, it’s recommended to have a minimum of 2 millimeters for optimal safety and performance. Additionally, make sure to check the tire pressures. This can be done yourself at a gas station or by visiting a workshop for assistance.
Vehicle visibility
There are several important elements to review in terms of visibility. While tires are crucial for road contact, our vision indirectly connects us to the asphalt.
Start by turning on the car’s lights and ensuring they are all functioning properly, including the turn signals. Replace any burnt-out bulbs if necessary. It’s also advisable to clean the headlights to enhance visibility for other drivers.
Give your car a thorough wash to maintain cleanliness. Pay special attention to cleaning all the windows (windshield, rear window, side windows, and mirrors). Not only is it important for safety reasons, but it is also a legal requirement. Article 19.1 of the General Traffic Regulations states that the glazed surfaces of a vehicle must provide unobstructed visibility to the driver, without any interference from films or stickers. Additionally, check the condition of the wiper blades to ensure they are clean and not worn, especially in case of encountering a storm.
Mandatory items in the car
Prior to embarking on a trip, it’s essential to ensure you have all the necessary items, and we’re not referring to luggage. Check that you have the warning triangles, reflective vest, and spare wheel. These are fundamental elements for responding safely in emergency situations and also serve as preventive measures to avoid fines or penalties.
Additionally, don’t forget to carry all the required documentation. It’s important to have it readily accessible while traveling. Make sure to bring your registration certificate, valid inspection sticker, proof of insurance payment, and driver’s license. Regarding the driver’s license, it’s no longer necessary to carry the physical plastic card as long as you have it available on your mobile device.
