Planning a Road Trip This Year - Be Sure Our Car's Running Right, Part 2

In Part I of this two-part series, we discussed the major systems that should be checked under the hood before you even leave the driveway for your summer trip.

This year, according to some expert estimates, many people are planning their vacations by car so they can stay relatively near home. With money tight and expenses up, it just makes sense to use the resources you have, rather than going all-out on a holiday blowout that will leave your credit cards panting.

In this second and last part of the series, we'll cover the other major systems that you should have checked out before you pull out on the Interstate. We left off with your car's brakes being checked for wear and for system integrity.

In a like mode, be sure that your car's transmission (transaxle if it's a front-drive vehicle) is working correctly. Like the gasoline filter that your mechanic replaced, be sure to have any transmission filters replaced and, while you are at it, make sure the transmission fluid is up to the mark. Take care to feel the fluid on the dipstick (You can check this one yourself). If it feels gritty and looks dirty, then the chances are good that it is and it should be replaced. However, before you can replace it, you have to know why it became dirty and it's a good idea to have your mechanic does just that. I might just be a plugged up transmission filter that is letting dirt through or it could mean there's another problem (a hole or leak somewhere that's introducing dirty into what should really be a sealed system.

Also, while you are doing the tranny fluid level check, take quick sniff of the fluid. If it smells burned, then chances are good that sometime in the past either the clutches or bands in the transmission burned or they may have to be replaced. This should cost in the $1,500 range (tops at a factory shop). Make sure, too, that there are no leaks from the transmission. You can do this - and still keep your driveway clean, by placing a large piece of white craft paper - cut to size of your car and drive onto it. Let it sit over night and watch transmission fluid leaks that should appear red or dark brown. If the leak is gray, then it is likely the braking system, and if it is green, then it is likely that you are leaking antifreeze/coolant and that the offending hose or clamps will have to be replaced.

If everything is all right so far, it's a good idea to look closely at the tires to make sure they are in good shape. Be sure that the same types of tires are mounted not only on the same sides of the car but also on the opposite axles to one another. This will keep the handling good.

Be sure, also, that the tires have at least 1/16^th of an inch of tread and that the treadware bars are not showing. This is the law in most states and it is the absolute minimum that will give you reasonable handling in dry and wet weather. If you see that the tire treadware bars are showing (they are small patches of rubber that appear at right angles across the tire carcass.

If the tires check out, then it's a good idea to make sure that all the interior electronic systems are working correctly. Check the GPS system, if your car is equipped with one, to make sure that it shows where you are, even at rest. Likewise, make sure the climate control system is working correctly and keeping the interior of your vehicle cold.

Again, this is more of a comfort or convenience item, but it still should be checked out. Make sure that any electrical or automatic seats are working correctly and that if your vehicle is equipped with electrically movable pedals for shorter drivers that those systems work, too. It doesn't take much thought to realize that wives will take over the driving duties from their mates after a certain amount of time. It makes sense and gets you a little rest. Be sure, too, that if your vehicle is equipped with a rear-facing DVD system so your kids can watch their favorite movies and keep out of mischief.

Be sure, too, that the upholstery is clean and the rugs and mats are in good shape, too.

That's about it for checks. If you do this work, you'll probably find not only that your trip is more fun because you can relax and enjoy it and that you may save money because a vehicle with all its major system tuned to the peak of performance, is a money saver.