2012 Spring Festival Self-Driving Guide: Ten Things to Watch Out For

　　Motor vehicles must have their engine oil changed every 5,000 kilometers. You can unscrew the drain plug located at the bottom of the oil pan. This not only drains out all the old oil but also flushes away metal shavings and other debris accumulated at the bottom. When draining the oil, make sure the car is parked on a well-balanced lift; otherwise, the oil may not be completely drained.

　　Choose engine oil according to the manufacturer’s specifications and requirements to ensure you use the appropriate quality grade or higher. Also consider seasonal changes when selecting oil. Since oil viscosity changes with temperature—thickening in winter and thinning in summer—it's best to choose oil with slightly higher viscosity in very hot regions. In cold seasons, thinner oil can be used. However, high-quality oils today can be used in various climates, such as Mobil 1 0W-40.

　　Automotive brake fluid, also known as brake oil, is the liquid used in the hydraulic braking system to transmit pressure. Because its quality directly affects braking reliability, choosing the right brake fluid is crucial for driver safety and should never be taken lightly.

　　Brake fluid has water-absorbing properties. If not replaced for long periods, it can corrode the braking system and pose hidden risks. Brake fluid should generally be replaced every two years or 40,000 kilometers.

　　Automatic transmissions are highly complex and precise components. Replacing the transmission fluid every 40,000 kilometers is an effective way to ensure the proper functioning of your automatic transmission.

　　Using antifreeze in the engine provides several protective benefits: it prevents corrosion of cooling system components; stops scale buildup that could reduce radiator efficiency; and ensures the engine operates within the correct temperature range. The service life of antifreeze is typically 1–2 years or 40,000 kilometers. Over time, its anti-rust and anti-freeze performance will decline.

　　Check whether there is enough windshield washer fluid and look for any sediment in the reservoir. It’s a good idea to remove and clean the reservoir every 20,000 kilometers, then reinstall it and refill with fluid. When refilling, it’s best to add a cleaning agent that can remove grease from the windshield. Plain water can be used as an alternative, but it cleans less effectively and may cause faster wear of the wiper blades. Although low washer fluid or poor wipers won’t cause mechanical failure, failing to clean dirty windshields promptly can damage the glass or even compromise driving safety.

　　If you bought your car in the last quarter of last year, make sure not to miss its first scheduled maintenance. For example, if your car’s first service is due at 3 months or 2,500 kilometers and you’re returning home for the Spring Festival where no 4S shop is available for after-sales service, you might miss the first service after a long drive, leading to unnecessary disputes over maintenance. So new car owners should plan ahead—if your new car is nearing its first service, consider getting it done before the long trip.

　　Ten Warm Tips to Ensure a Safe Spring Festival Self-Drive Trip:

　　First, check for items like the warning triangle, jack, tire-changing tools, and spare tire. Then, inspect the onboard tool kit, which usually contains basic tools such as wrenches, screwdrivers, and lug nut wrenches. A fire extinguisher is also essential. Don’t forget to carry the original car manual. For instance, if a dashboard warning light comes on, you might find the cause explained in the manual.

　　During the Spring Festival, setting off fireworks is a joyful tradition for many. Sometimes, people look for convenience and set them off in random open spaces without considering nearby vehicles. This is actually quite dangerous—fireworks can easily damage car paint. Whenever possible, choose a wide-open area to set off fireworks or park your car somewhere safer, like an underground garage.

　　Many people have had this experience: after a night of loud fireworks, they wake up to find their car won’t start, only to realize the alarm was blaring all night. This is quite common—the sound of fireworks can easily drown out the car alarm. We recommend turning off your vehicle alarm at night, especially when the car is parked in a relatively secure area.

　　When going on a self-driving trip, try to bring plenty of food and water. It’s also wise to pack medications, clothes, and other essentials, as these items can come in handy in case of emergencies.

　　If you’re not familiar with the route ahead, it’s best to fill up the tank before departure. When fuel drops below half, consider refueling at the nearest gas station. Since you may not know the local area well, there’s always a chance of long stretches without fuel stations. Running out of gas halfway can be extremely troublesome.

　　During your trip, you’ll often stop to rest, take photos, or ask for directions. Many people turn off the engine, take out the key, and get out of the car. But it’s also common to leave the key on the seat for convenience. Be aware that some cars automatically lock after the engine is turned off and the key is removed. If the key is still inside, it can create a big problem. So for long trips, we strongly recommend carrying a spare key—and keeping it in your pocket is the safest option.

　　Although we usually carry less cash and more cards in our daily work or on short trips — for the sake of convenience and safety — it's essential to bring sufficient cash when going on a long road trip, especially for those traveling a significant distance. This is because we may not know how convenient it is to use bank cards or withdraw money in unfamiliar areas or cities. In critical moments, cash remains the quickest payment method. Additionally, some drivers obtain prepaid cards at gas stations for refueling, which makes the process very convenient. However, it’s important to note that even within the same brand, gas station cards are often not interconnected across provinces. Therefore, bringing enough cash is highly recommended.

　　Those traveling across provinces must bring all necessary documents and vehicle credentials, such as your driver’s license, vehicle registration, insurance policy, etc. Be sure to check the validity of your insurance, driver’s license, and understand the procedures for handling traffic accidents. Familiarize yourself with your car insurance company’s contact information in the provinces and cities you’ll be passing through. In the event of an accident, report it within 48 hours and wait for the insurance company staff to handle it, while protecting the scene in the meantime.

　　Tip 9: Carry a map or navigation device and chargers for communication tools

　　Getting lost or unable to find your destination is common when visiting unfamiliar areas or cities. So before you set off, make sure to prepare maps, a GPS device, and ensure that your phone and other communication tools are fully charged. Those who can should carry extra batteries, and chargers are absolutely essential.

　　When leaving your vehicle, always take your valuables with you to prevent theft. Additionally, try to park your car in official or attended parking lots, choosing spots with good visibility or well-lit areas.