Autotourism is one of the most convenient and free travel formats. It allows you to plan your route yourself, visit small towns, natural locations and places where public transport rarely gets there.
But the comfort and safety of such a trip directly depend on the technical condition of the car.
Autotourism: how to prepare a car for long—distance travel
Long-distance travel means increased loads: long runs, different types of pavement, streamers, primers, temperature fluctuations and luggage weight. Therefore, preparing a car for a trip requires a more careful approach than regular operation in the city.
Why does a road trip require special vehicle preparation
In urban conditions, the car is used in a relatively gentle mode: short trips, familiar roads, quick access to services. In autotourism, everything is different — the car becomes part of the journey, on the reliability of which the entire route depends.
Typical problems of an unprepared car include:
- accelerated wear of wheels and tires;
- reduced handling on the highway;
- damaged discs on uneven roads;
- difficulties with repairs away from populated areas.
To avoid unpleasant situations, it is important to check the key components and consumables of the car in advance.
Wheels and tires: the basis of safety on the road
The wheels take on the main load during the journey. They provide traction, stability of the car and comfort when driving. Before traveling, it is important to assess not only the condition of the tires, but also the car discs.
What you should pay attention to:
- wheel diameter compliance with manufacturer’s recommendations;
- absence of cracks and deformations;
- uniform tire wear;
- tire pressure, taking into account the full load of the machine.
Even minor wheel defects or incorrectly selected parameters can negatively affect the behavior of the car on the road.
Selection of car discs for long-distance trips
Choosing discs for travel is primarily a matter of practicality and safety, not just appearance. For long-distance trips, it is important to take into account the technical parameters and operating conditions of the car.
When choosing, you should focus on:
- The diameter of the disc recommended by the car manufacturer.
- The width and reach that affect the stability and handling of the machine.
- The material is cast or stamped, depending on the type of roads.
- Compatible with used tires.
For car trips on asphalt and mixed routes, options like 15-inch wheels are often considered, since this diameter allows you to maintain a balance between comfort, reliability and accessibility of tires.
Proper selection of discs reduces the load on the suspension, improves the behavior of the car on the highway and makes the trip less tedious.
Checking the car before traveling: basic checklist
It is recommended to carry out a minimum technical inspection of the car before a long trip.
The main points of verification:
- braking system;
- tire condition and wheel pressure;
- visual inspection of discs;
- levels of technical fluids;
- serviceability of lighting devices;
- availability of a spare wheel and tools.
Even a minor malfunction, which is not critical in the city, can become a serious problem on the highway.
Route and car: how road conditions and equipment are related
The type of road surface directly affects the requirements for the vehicle. Paved highways, mountain roads, and country lanes have different requirements for wheels, tires, and suspension.
If the route includes:
- regions with poor roads;
- mountainous areas;
- remote natural locations,
special attention should be paid to the selection of tires and rims, as well as to the general condition of the car.
Autotourism: how to prepare a car for a trip
Autotourism gives you freedom, but it requires responsibility. Preparing a car for a long journey helps to avoid unforeseen situations and focus on the most important thing — the road and impressions.
Checking wheels, tires, and matching discs is an important part of route planning. A competent approach to the technical condition of the car makes the trip safer and more comfortable, regardless of the direction and distance.
