Preparation for a Road Trip: Two Important Electrical Checks
If you are planning on making a long journey, you will want to make sure your car is in good condition. Covering many miles can place stress on your car. You might check that your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure, that the mechanical systems are working and that you have enough fuel. However, you may be overlooking one important aspect of your car - the electrical system. Below is a guide to two electrical aspects you should check before hitting the road.
The light bulbs
The headlights and rear lights on your car help to illuminate the road and allow other road users to see you clearly in the dark. Over time, the light bulbs on your car can fail. To check the bulbs, you should ask a companion to stand near the car while you turn on and off each set of lights in turn. The companion will be able to check that the lights are working as they should be. If you notice that any of the bulbs are not working, you should replace them before setting off on your trip. If your companion notices that one of the headlights is much brighter than the other, this could be the result of a wiring fault, and you should have your car inspected by an auto repair shop.
The car battery
The battery in your car provides the power needed to start the engine, illuminate the headlights and run the air conditioning system. Before you set off on your journey, you should carry out a full visual inspection of your car battery. Use a spanner to remove the cables from the terminals on the top of the battery and unbolt the battery from the casing before lifting it out. Check every side of the battery for any signs of leaks, cracks or other damage. If you detect any signs of damage, you should buy a new battery from an auto electrical repair shop.
You should then check the terminals located on top of the battery for any sign of corrosion. If the terminals are corroded, you will see a crusty white substance. To remove the corrosion, you should mix a little baking soda with a cup of water until it forms a paste. Apply this paste to the terminals and then use a toothbrush to remove the paste and the corrosion.
If you have any concerns about your vehicle's electrical system, you should contact an auto electrical repair shop.
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