What You Must Prepare For Mudik Trip By Private Car
22 June, 2017
Going for a trip by private car for Idul Fitri homecoming exodus, or commonly called mudik, has become the choice of many Indonesian families. The main considerations are because it is an economical choice, not limited by public transportation timing and schedule, and you can rest or even stop by at various places during the trip. Despite massive traffic jams that sometimes require people to take mudik trip for days on the road, they still have strong intention to go for mudik trip by private cars.
Considering massive traffic jams and long distance trip, you should have best preparation for your car so that it can function well. You can find auto repair businesses along the way that especially give services for motor vehicles during mudik trip, but you certainly do not want to have any car engine failure that will make you suspend the trip. These are the things to be prepared before you go for mudik trip by private car:
Motor oil and spare parts
Motor oil or engine lubricant is the most important thing that needs your special attention. Before you go for a mudik trip, make sure that motor oil for your car is still in good condition. If the oil is almost expired, it is advisable for you to replace the oil.Aside from oil matter, you can ask an auto mechanic to check on other spare parts that usually have to be routinely replaced every several thousands of kilometers. Make sure that engine cooling fan, spark plug and oil filter still can be used. Don’t forget to check on lamps as well.
Also read: Tips for Idul Fitri Homecoming Trip with Little Children
Tire
Automobile comfortableness highly depends on tire condition. Make sure that your car tires are not flat, bald or have any bump on its surface. Also check on air pressure in the tires. If the car carries full passengers, add more pressure according to auto mechanic’s suggestion or as instructed in car owner’s manual.Even when you are already sure that your car tires are still good, it will not be a mistake to ask auto repair shop to do spooring and balancing. It may cost extra charge, but your car is guaranteed to be more comfortable. Don’t forget to check on spare tire too. Make sure that its tire pressure is perfect and that the tire is ready to be used in case there’s something wrong with main tires.
Brake and car Suspension
Brake and car suspension are usually two parts rarely checked during an overall check before mudik trip. However, the two components are actually very important, not only for the sake of comfortableness, but also for safety especially in a long drive. Replacing brake pads with the new ones is not always necessary. It’s enough to just clean them up, and make sure that they have proper thickness. As for car suspension, when your car starts to produce noises every time it passes through awful roads, that’s a sign that there’s a problem with that component. If there’s no sound or noise, just check whether your car suspension might have a loose part. Don’t forget to check on gear oil and car transmission fluid as well.
Water
Check on water condition in car radiator. If necessary, drain the radiator and put in new water. You can add radiator fluid too for more maximum performance if needed. Also check on your car’s windshield washer fluid so that it gushes smoothly when rain pours down. If you see that your wiper blade rubber has worn out, do not hesitate to replace it. Good wiper blades will give you clear vision when it gets rain. You can see more clearly as you are driving.
Also read: MPV Car That Is Affordable and Comfortable for Your Little Family
Car kits and equipment
When your car is ready to be used, it’s time for you to prepare for car kits and equipments. Make sure you bring complete tool kits and all necessary equipments to replace tire and put them in your car trunk. Don’t forget to take first aid kits and safety triangle too. Lastly, check on the expiration date of your driver’s license (SIM) and Vehicle Registration Number (STNK), just in case they must be renewed.
Preparing your car should be conducted two to three weeks ahead of your planned mudik trip. Therefore, if the car turns out to be not proper enough for a long trip, you still have time to seek for other alternatives. Don’t go for the trip if the car is not in good condition as it will be really troublesome. So, are you ready now for a mudik trip by car? Have fun and drive safely!
