vehicleprep

Have your vehicle in proper running condition at all times. That way if you want to leave on a spur of the moment trip your vehicle is ready to go.

Check the owners manual and follow their service schedules.
Don't wait and have the vehicle serviced the day before leaving on your trip. The reason is vehicle failures often take place after being serviced. Water pumps are notorious for blowing seals a few days after a cooling system flush. Oil drain plugs may begin leaking after a oil change.etc Trust me, I was a certified Mechanic for many years. I have seen it all.

Some of the basic things to check and do before hitting the open road.
"No brainers"

1:Change oil and filter. Run the proper viscosity for the engine and weather.
2:Check condition and level of differentials, Gear boxes, and Transfer cases. Why not go ahead and replace the gear oil if it has been a while. Clean breathers.
3: If running a Automatic transmission how is the fluid level and does it need replacing. If so Power flush it and replace the filter.
4:Check all belts and hoses for wear. Replace as needed and carry the old ones as spares.
5:Clean or replace Air filter, PCV valve, Fuel filters. Carry at least a spare Fuel filter.
6:Check that the Power steering is in proper condition. Adjust free play in steering box.
7:Check the Cooling System. Do you have the proper ratio of coolant? Is the Radiator clean? Are the cooling fins strait?
8:Have the Brakes inspected and repaired by a Certified brake inspector.
9:Does the A/C work? Can you live without it if it does not work?
10: Check the condition of the Wiper Blades and all of the Vehicle lighting system.
11: Have the charging system and wiring inspected.
12: Inspect all tires on the Vehicle. Is there enough tread left? How is the spare? Is one spare enough? Set pressure to recommended levels.
13:Inspect all bolts and nuts. Are the Axle u-bolts tight? Are the Bumpers falling off? etc,etc.
14:Carry a good assortment of tools.(More on this in the Vehicle Essentials page)

Don't turn a blind eye to any of these things. I can guarantee you that old Mr. Murphy will remind you of them at the worst possible time and place!!