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How to Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip. Before you and your buddies drive from Boston to
Bogota at least make sure your car is in working shape. You will need A tire pressure gauge
A tire tread depth gauge Replacement engine fluids A good mechanic Emergency supplies
and snow chains (optional). Step 1. Check the tire pressure and inspect tires for bubbles,
knots, cracks, gouges, and uneven wear. Step 2. Check tire tread with a depth gauge, available
at auto supply stores for a few dollars. It will tell you if your tires are bald. Rotate
your tires if it�s been a while since you�ve done so. Traveling in the winter? Consider
investing in a pair of tire chains�some mountainous roads even require them. Step
3. Check your engine fluid levels�oil, brake, power steering, transmission, and coolant.
Add fluids as necessary. If you are getting your oil changed, ask the shop to check your
tires and engine fluids. Step 4. Inspect your wiper blades and replace them if necessary.
Top off your windshield wiper fluid and throw the leftover jug in the trunk. Step 5. Have
a mechanic check your battery, spark plugs, and belts, and test your brakes. If your car
is making any strange noises or handles �funny,� pay a mechanic to do a full inspection. Step
6. Pack an emergency kit. It should contain nonperishable food like energy bars, water,
jumper cables, first aid supplies, a flashlight, and extra engine fluids. Better safe than
sorry. Did you know Planning for the interstate highway system started in the 1930s, but it
wasn�t officially established until 1956.