Going on your Eid vacation? Check if your car can go on a long drive

Being stuck in the same dull place for a long time can be mentally or physically draining. During this Eid break, people tend to get out of the urban landscape to somewhere refreshing with their loved ones. Maybe someplace beautiful with amazing sceneries like Bandarban or Cox's Bazar, or perhaps a place that they haven't been to in a long time like their village. Either way, it seems like a long road trip can be revitalising. It's best to be prepared for the long drives around the congested city of Dhaka and the plans for Eid can be a horror scene if your car breaks down. It's always necessary to check these basic maintenance work before going out to travel during this break.

Remember to check the five essential fluids of your car before heading out.

Fluids

Fluids are the lifeline of an automobile, constantly keeping the car running. There are five essential fluids to watch out for depending on mileage and service history. 

Engine oil is critical for an engine since it lubricates all the essential components reducing friction and preventing engine overheating. Use a dipstick to check oil quality or level, change it if servicing is not done within the recommended time frame.

Radiator fluid or coolant keeps the car engine cool by extracting heat from the engine and dissipating it through the radiator. Top it off with the necessary coolant before permanently damaging the engine.

Brake fluid provides the force created in the brake pads when the brake pedal is pressed. Brakes are important since it's the only way a car can be stopped and can lead to fatal accidents when it fails. Brake fluid can be easily checked when the brake is applied, it can be felt whether they are working or not.

Transmission fluid is much like oil lubricating the transmission, making sure the parts are functioning correctly. A long drive can easily be ruined by a jerky transmission, thus it's recommended to service it.

Power-steering fluid helps turn the wheels at any speed but it can wear out, making your steering less responsive. It's a good idea to check the fluid every time the engine oil is changed.

Remember to stock up on fuel before the long drive.

Component Maintenance

Tires are one of the most important components of a car and it is the only part touching the road. Well-maintained tires are the most important part of safety. Try making a habit of checking your tires before a long drive, since unhealthy tires will cause dangerous accidents. Always make sure the tires are properly inflated, not cracked or enough threads are there for traction, change tires if they are not looking good.

Light bulbs are the only way to navigate through the road at night, having a broken or burnt-out lightbulb can be dangerous driving through the night. Make sure the headlights, brake lights and turn-signal lights are all working properly.

Serpentine belt is a simple piece of rubber belt that keeps the car running by powering outlying devices such as the power steering pump, alternator and air conditioner compressor. If there is wear and tear or cracks, replace it or else it can stop the water pump from circulating which can cause the engine to overheat, leading to sudden loss of power assistance for the steering system. This can be troublesome during a road trip.

Air filter is an essential component of a car that regulates the air that flows into the engine and keeps out debris that can damage the engine. Air filters enhance fuel efficiency, lower emissions and keep the engine life span longer during proper airflow. If it's thick, dirty and nothing can be seen through, the air filter needs to be replaced.

Battery provides power for starting your vehicle, thus it is very important to watch out for battery performance. The battery must be checked for a clean and corrosion-free connection. Check the battery fluid level and add distilled water if it's low and clean the terminals with water and baking soda.

Ensure you're sufficiently prepared before heading out.

Supplies preparation

Plan to navigate through the congested streets of Dhaka, use Google Maps to check on how heavy the traffic is and find the fastest way through to your destination.

In order to keep yourself entertained, keep a couple of things like music or a DVD.

Do keep some snacks as well as driving hungry can make the driver drowsy.

Don't forget your driver's licence, Insurance Information, car registration papers, extra car key, car manual, phone number for roadside emergency assistance and lastly some cash in hand as these may be needed at any time or anywhere during a road trip.

Make sure your car is in tip-top condition before the long drive.

Emergency tools and driver preparation

It's always a good idea to plan ahead of the trip by getting your car ready and making sure to be prepared for the worst.

Carry spare tires, an extra serpentine belt, an extra air filter, and handy tools for basic car breakdown maintenance as being stranded in the middle of a highway with no one around can get people into trouble.

Be prepared mentally and physically by getting a proper sleep before an exhausting drive, staying hydrated to avoid being tired or nauseous. Try chewing gum to stay alert.

Stretch often to avoid body fatigue since on such a road trip if the driver gets sick or tired can lead to fatal accidents as you are driving at high speeds in the highway.

After taking everything into account, the great long drive can be done safely where you can enjoy the view where it's an incredible opportunity to put your attention on the outside world and overlook your problems for a while as Eid breaks are meant to be enjoyed with your loved ones and giving yourself a break.

Photos: Ahbaar Milky