The National Day holiday is approaching. Taking your loved ones out for a drive in your own car brings a unique sense of warmth and freedom. However, there are several important things to keep in mind when traveling by car that drivers absolutely must not overlook.
A. Pre-trip Inspection
A technical director at a 4S store reminds drivers that before setting off, you need to plan your route and identify rest stops, preparing a detailed itinerary and map while considering as many potential issues as possible along the way. Be sure to bring a spare tire, engine oil, coolant, as well as tools such as a jack, tow rope, pliers, and wrenches. It’s also advisable to carry emergency equipment like a first aid kit, emergency light, compass, and warning signs for unforeseen circumstances.
“When driving, stay attentive. Always monitor the vehicle’s various operating conditions—listen to the engine, check the dashboard, and be alert to any unusual smells from wires, the clutch, or brake pads,” the technical director told reporters. During breaks, it’s also wise to walk around the car for a quick inspection to promptly address minor issues with the tires, brakes, or steering.
Be careful not to let foreign objects get caught on the body or undercarriage—it can be very dangerous. One case showed that after turning onto a rural road, the driver first heard a strange noise when turning left, which persisted. After pulling over and removing the tire themselves, they suddenly found a small stone the size of a fava bean had fallen out. Once the tire was reinstalled, the noise stopped. Had the driver not noticed and tried to solve the problem in time, the consequences could have been dire.
B. Stay Alert While Driving
Driving at high speed for extended periods often leads to a buildup of bug splatters on the windshield. These insect remains are difficult to clean off with just windshield washer fluid and spraying—they often leave smears after a few wipes, making the windshield even more “streaked.” It’s recommended to first gently wipe the windshield with water and a towel at a rest area, then purchase a specialized insect stain cleaner upon reaching your destination to protect the car’s paint.
“Before setting off, drivers must conduct a thorough inspection and maintenance of their vehicle: ensure there is enough lubricant for the engine and transmission, and check that the chassis, brakes, steering, tires, suspension, and other components are functioning properly,” said a technical director at a FAW-Volkswagen 4S store. Before going on a trip, it’s essential to make sure the car is in optimal condition.
“If you really don’t have time to take your vehicle to a 4S shop for inspection, drivers can also do a basic check themselves,” the technical director added. “Before your trip, carefully check whether the tires are inflated properly and show no signs of bulging. Additionally, make sure there is enough engine oil, and that critical components like the brakes, steering, and lights are all working well.”
Checking the vehicle’s condition isn’t limited to when it’s stationary—inspecting it while in motion is equally important. For example, on smooth roads, you can momentarily release the steering wheel slightly while driving to see if the car pulls to one side on its own. If there is any unusual pulling, it may indicate that one of the tires is underinflated.
C. Pay Attention When Buying Car Insurance
“I’ve got car insurance, so travel accident insurance doesn’t matter.” This might be the mindset of most drivers. In reality, aside from the usual risks of daily driving, self-driving tours come with some unique risks. Before setting off, it’s still necessary to secure adequate protection for both the car and its occupants, based on different vehicle conditions, destinations, and road conditions along the way.
Insurance specialists suggest that when purchasing self-driving trip insurance, extra attention should be paid to whether in-car belongings and accompanying family members are covered. If a driver usually only has third-party liability and vehicle damage insurance, then the safety of belongings in the car and other passengers is not protected. In the event of an incident, the driver would have to cover the costs themselves—yet the risks of property loss or accidents involving family and friends during travel are very real.
“Finally, after returning from a self-driving trip, you should thoroughly inspect your car, such as checking for collisions or deformations on the chassis, and whether the braking system shows signs of severe wear,” reminded both technical directors.
It is reported that many drivers return from trips and immediately dive back into work, neglecting the maintenance of their beloved cars. Little do they know that minor bumps and scratches incurred during the journey, if not repaired promptly, could turn into major problems and safety hazards. Therefore, it’s essential to take your car to a 4S shop for inspection and maintenance after returning from a trip.
A. Pre-trip Inspection
A technical director at a 4S store reminds drivers that before setting off, you need to plan your route and identify rest stops, preparing a detailed itinerary and map while considering as many potential issues as possible along the way. Be sure to bring a spare tire, engine oil, coolant, as well as tools such as a jack, tow rope, pliers, and wrenches. It’s also advisable to carry emergency equipment like a first aid kit, emergency light, compass, and warning signs for unforeseen circumstances.
“When driving, stay attentive. Always monitor the vehicle’s various operating conditions—listen to the engine, check the dashboard, and be alert to any unusual smells from wires, the clutch, or brake pads,” the technical director told reporters. During breaks, it’s also wise to walk around the car for a quick inspection to promptly address minor issues with the tires, brakes, or steering.
Be careful not to let foreign objects get caught on the body or undercarriage—it can be very dangerous. One case showed that after turning onto a rural road, the driver first heard a strange noise when turning left, which persisted. After pulling over and removing the tire themselves, they suddenly found a small stone the size of a fava bean had fallen out. Once the tire was reinstalled, the noise stopped. Had the driver not noticed and tried to solve the problem in time, the consequences could have been dire.
B. Stay Alert While Driving
Driving at high speed for extended periods often leads to a buildup of bug splatters on the windshield. These insect remains are difficult to clean off with just windshield washer fluid and spraying—they often leave smears after a few wipes, making the windshield even more “streaked.” It’s recommended to first gently wipe the windshield with water and a towel at a rest area, then purchase a specialized insect stain cleaner upon reaching your destination to protect the car’s paint.
“Before setting off, drivers must conduct a thorough inspection and maintenance of their vehicle: ensure there is enough lubricant for the engine and transmission, and check that the chassis, brakes, steering, tires, suspension, and other components are functioning properly,” said a technical director at a FAW-Volkswagen 4S store. Before going on a trip, it’s essential to make sure the car is in optimal condition.
“If you really don’t have time to take your vehicle to a 4S shop for inspection, drivers can also do a basic check themselves,” the technical director added. “Before your trip, carefully check whether the tires are inflated properly and show no signs of bulging. Additionally, make sure there is enough engine oil, and that critical components like the brakes, steering, and lights are all working well.”
Checking the vehicle’s condition isn’t limited to when it’s stationary—inspecting it while in motion is equally important. For example, on smooth roads, you can momentarily release the steering wheel slightly while driving to see if the car pulls to one side on its own. If there is any unusual pulling, it may indicate that one of the tires is underinflated.
C. Pay Attention When Buying Car Insurance
“I’ve got car insurance, so travel accident insurance doesn’t matter.” This might be the mindset of most drivers. In reality, aside from the usual risks of daily driving, self-driving tours come with some unique risks. Before setting off, it’s still necessary to secure adequate protection for both the car and its occupants, based on different vehicle conditions, destinations, and road conditions along the way.
Insurance specialists suggest that when purchasing self-driving trip insurance, extra attention should be paid to whether in-car belongings and accompanying family members are covered. If a driver usually only has third-party liability and vehicle damage insurance, then the safety of belongings in the car and other passengers is not protected. In the event of an incident, the driver would have to cover the costs themselves—yet the risks of property loss or accidents involving family and friends during travel are very real.
“Finally, after returning from a self-driving trip, you should thoroughly inspect your car, such as checking for collisions or deformations on the chassis, and whether the braking system shows signs of severe wear,” reminded both technical directors.
It is reported that many drivers return from trips and immediately dive back into work, neglecting the maintenance of their beloved cars. Little do they know that minor bumps and scratches incurred during the journey, if not repaired promptly, could turn into major problems and safety hazards. Therefore, it’s essential to take your car to a 4S shop for inspection and maintenance after returning from a trip.