Performing a car check-up is the best way to prevent accidents and avoid headaches before hitting the road during periods of heavy traffic on highways.
We’ve prepared a checklist to remind you of the items that need to be checked.
Start with the tires
The simplest way to inspect the tires is through inflation, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for a fully loaded car. They should also not show signs of wear and bubbles. Irregular tread wear indicates suspension misalignment or improper use over an extended period.
According to Resolution 558/80 of the Brazilian Traffic Code, tire grooves must have a minimum depth of 1.6 mm. New tires typically have an average of 8 mm for proper tread drainage, especially in cases of rain and hydroplaning. Don’t forget to include spare tires, which need to be in the same condition as the tires in use.
Wheels
Iron wheels also need to be checked, especially if they have dents. For example, if the tire pressure is low, the wheel may have air leakage. In this case, a tire repairman can fix it. In the case of alloy wheels, they should be replaced if there are breaks or cracks.
Safety equipment
It’s important to have a complete and in good condition safety equipment kit inside the car. Check if the triangle, jack, and other tools like the lug wrench are in good working condition and stored appropriately in the vehicle.
Suspension alignment and wheel balancing
If everything is okay with the tires and wheels, check the alignment and balancing to avoid problems at higher speeds. Vibrations in the steering wheel, for example, can indicate unbalanced wheels. Be alert to noises or the feeling that the car is “pulling to one side.”
Check the fluids
Checking the car’s lubrication prevents engine problems and can result in savings. Check the level and quality of the oil used. If the level is below the recommended mark, replace the product. The specifications for the type of oil to use can be found in the manual. Also, check if the water reservoir in the engine is full. Transmission, power steering, and clutch need to be checked, along with filters – air filter, air conditioning filter, and fuel filter. During long trips, the car demands more from the engine, which needs to be prepared to respond adequately to the driver’s commands. And, of course, make sure that the products used for replacement are within their expiration date.
Brakes
In situations involving higher speeds, it’s crucial that the brake system is in excellent condition. Perform regular preventive maintenance and ask the professional to carefully check all discs and brake pads.
Electrical system
Check all the car’s lights: turn signals, brakes, reverse lights, high and low beams, hazard lights, among others. These items are essential for a smooth trip. On the road, we rely solely on the lighting from vehicles.
Don’t forget to check the battery, starter motor, dashboard lights, alternator, and all the bulbs and fuses in your car. In rainy or foggy conditions, all these details will make a difference for safe driving.
Wipers and defroster
In the windshield cleaning system, the wiper blades should be moving smoothly on the front and rear windows of the vehicle to ensure good visibility. Check if they are dry or worn out. The wipers and defrosters need to be in good working order, and the windshield washer reservoir level should be checked.
Timing belts
Timing belts should be checked every 50,000 kilometers, on average. However, it’s advisable to check the need for replacement every 15,000 kilometers since wear and cracks can develop. The rupture of the timing belt can seriously damage the engine.
Check the exhaust system
The exhaust system’s main function is to remove gases generated after the combustion of cylinders, meaning it properly directs filtered gases out of the vehicle and prevents toxic gases from entering the interior. Another important function is to reduce noise pollution. Keep the exhaust system reviewed and replace it partially or completely as needed.
TO REMEMBER:
Articles 104 and 230 of the Brazilian Traffic Code state that driving a vehicle in poor condition or failing the safety inspection and emissions and noise evaluation can result in a severe fine, along with the loss of 5 points on the driver’s license.
Vehicle maintenance should be done at least a week in advance, in case any parts need to be replaced or the vehicle requires any time-consuming procedures.
Choose a trusted garage, conduct the proper vehicle checks, and then you’re ready to hit the road and enjoy your vacation with peace of mind and safety.
About Tuper
Tuper is the largest manufacturer of exhaust systems in Latin America and a market leader, producing exhausts, catalytic converters, and tailpipes for all car models, both domestic and imported, for 50 years. It is one of the largest steel processors in Brazil. In addition to operating in the original and aftermarket automotive sectors, it also operates in the oil and gas, construction, industrial, agribusiness, and other sectors. The company keeps up with market evolution with a broad product range, meeting the most demanding national and international standards.
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