Long-Distance Driving During Holidays... Check This Before Your Vehicle Departs

On the 28th, one day before the Lunar New Year holiday, a view of Haengdamdo Rest Area on the Seohaean Expressway from a police helicopter inspecting the homecoming traffic. (Aerial photography cooperation = Sergeant Moon Heung-ju and Inspector Shim Dong-guk, Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency) / Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] As the cold weather and heavy snowfall coincide with frequent long-distance driving during Myeongcheol, the importance of vehicle inspection is increasing. K Car, a used car platform company, introduced methods for drivers to visually check the condition of automotive consumables.

First, engine oil can be checked for remaining quantity and condition using the dipstick installed in the engine. After turning off the ignition and letting the engine cool down, when you pull out the dipstick and see oil between the F (Full) and L (Low) marks, it is normal; if it is below L, oil needs to be replenished.

If the oil color is black or cloudy, it is recommended to replace it. If it is difficult to check, it is generally necessary to replace it within about 10,000 km of driving distance or within 6 months to 1 year.

Checking the coolant, which cools the engine, is also essential. The coolant gauge next to the auxiliary tank is normal if it is between MAX and MIN. If it is below MIN, open the cap and refill the coolant. The washer fluid should also be filled up by opening the washer fluid inlet cap.

For safety on icy roads, checking the brakes and tires is also necessary. Brake fluid is a liquid that helps maintain the braking power of the brakes. If not replaced for a long time, moisture can accumulate and boil due to heat generated during braking. In severe cases, the brakes may not function properly, posing a danger. It is recommended to replace brake fluid every 40,000 to 50,000 km (in some cases 20,000 km) or every 2 years.

For safe driving on icy roads, checking external consumables is also essential. The first things to check are the tire's 'air pressure' and 'wear level.'

In winter, tires contract due to cold weather, so it is better to inflate the tires about 10% higher than usual. Check the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) inside the vehicle to ensure the air pressure is maintained at the proper level. Generally, the appropriate pressure for passenger cars is known to be 35 to 40 PSI, but it varies slightly depending on the vehicle model, specifications, and weather, so check the manufacturer's recommended values.

If driving longer distances than usual, tire wear progresses faster, so it is good to check the wear level before departure. You can measure the depth by inserting a thin object like a coin into the tire tread grooves or check the wear limit line. If the wear is severe, the tire should be replaced.

To secure a safe view, also check whether the wipers and headlights are functioning properly. If marks, noise, or shaking occur when operating the wipers, replace them immediately. The recommended replacement cycle is on average 6 months to 1 year.

If driving the vehicle after a long time, it is also good to check the headlights, turn signals, and brake lights for safe night driving and to prevent collision accidents.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.