Road trips and family staycations are becoming more common than ever. In 2024, Americans spent around 6 to 10 hours driving for a single road trip. As exciting as these trips are, they’re heavily dependent on a sturdy and well-functioning vehicle.
Before embarking on any long-distance journey, it is important to check the vehicle for any warning signs. These signs may seem minor, but they may point toward a deeper problem.
If you’re planning a road trip anytime soon, it’s time to buckle up and scrutinize your car. In this article, we will share four warning signs you should not ignore and why.
Worn-out Tires
Tires that look worn-out or under-inflated can become a safety risk on the road. Now, the US has the most extensive road network in the world. This does not, however, mean that all its roads are in top-notch condition.
A study found that around 40% of the major roads in the country are in poor or mediocre condition. They are marked by uneven surfaces and potholes. The three states with the worst road conditions include Rhode Island, Hawaii, and California.
The infrastructure may not change anytime soon. A driver’s only hope of commuting to and fro safely lies in good tires that securely grip the roads. Worn-out tires may not create enough friction, thereby skidding, especially on rainy days or when brakes are suddenly applied.
Moreover, the air pressure in the tires matters. Those with not enough pressure may experience blowouts, which makes controlling the vehicle difficult.
Suspension Problems
A car’s suspension system plays a crucial role in maintaining stability, absorbing shocks, and maximizing friction with the road. This means you need an optimally functioning suspension system to overcome external obstacles like speed breakers, potholes, and sudden braking.
A failing suspension system leaves the vehicle’s occupants vulnerable to drifting, wheel misalignment, and poor steering. Common signs of suspension issues include misaligned wheels, a bumpy ride, or loose handling on the steering. When parked, the car may even appear to sit lower on one side than the other.
Broken Lights or Wipers
As per the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), nearly 38,700 road crashes annually occur due to fog. This tells us the importance of good visibility for a safe ride.
Bad weather is undoubtedly a risky time to head out. It only gets riskier when your car’s visibility-supporting features are under-performing. In other words, the headlights, tail lights, and turn signals should never be cracked or broken.
In addition, the windscreen or wiper blades should always function well. If these features become rugged, they can make visibility challenging during rainy weather.
Faulty Brakes
While the function of brakes may seem obvious, their importance can never be overstated. They are essential for a car to navigate through heavy traffic, especially oncoming vehicles. If your car’s brakes emit odd sounds, pull the car to one side, or feel soft to the touch, they may be defective.
Neglecting brakes-related issues can cost heavily in the future. It can make it nearly impossible to stop the car suddenly in a crowded area. Faulty brakes are a top cause of rear-end collisions because they increase stopping distance.
Why Such Warning Signs Must Never Be Ignored
There can be numerous things that can go wrong with a car. The truth is some will cost more than others. If issues like those we discussed are left unaddressed, they will pile up and shorten the vehicle’s lifespan.
With time, the issues may deteriorate further and lead to costly repairs. What’s more alarming is that the car will become a ticking time bomb. Let us demonstrate this to you using an example.
Suppose a driver heads out for a relaxing road trip across Colorado Springs. This city is much preferred for long drives from the viewpoint of scenic rock formations, tunnels, and other glories of nature. So, naturally, its terrain can be pretty rugged and uneven.
If a driver is hasty and ventures out without checking their car thoroughly first, they risk getting into an accident. This situation may worsen during icy winters.
Just this month, the city authorities issued a snowstorm warning for Colorado Springs residents. The I-25 heading southbound from Pueblo, New Mexico, has been sealed. Drivers are prohibited from traveling on the said interstate. As for others, drivers must move at their own risk. If they’re not careful, an accident might occur.
Such a scenario often involves a gruesome aftermath. Lives may be lost, or passengers may sustain severe injuries. According to the Springs Law Group, injuries usually include concussions, whiplash, or spinal cord damage.
A tough legal battle will also follow if the victim sues with the help of a car accident lawyer in Colorado Springs. One seemingly minor negligence can disrupt many lives, and that, too, for months or years down the line.
Routine Maintenance Can Save Lives
Given the immediate and prolonged aftermath of car accidents, it is never wise to neglect your car’s warning signs. If you suspect something is wrong, take no chances. Leave nothing to the mercy of tomorrow, and get your car checked as soon as possible.
Choose a reliable mechanic to conduct a thorough assessment of all external and under-the-hood systems. If any parts need repair or replacement, have them done sooner than later.
The general rule of thumb is to take your car for servicing once every six months. Routine maintenance at least twice a year will remove all hidden dangers and keep your vehicle in tip top shape. Refer to your car’s owner manual for any specific guidelines as well.
Finally, do not skip routine maintenance at any cost. Missing out on periodic oil changes and batter checks can increase accident risks. At the least, such neglect can leave one stranded on the road. In short, taking precautions will keep your car performing at its best for years to come.
Last Updated on by Icy Tales Team