Car Checklist Before Going to Hometown

◆For Safe Driving During Holidays

△Wear seat belts in all seats

△Check the route to your destination before departure

△Get a vehicle safety inspection before long-distance driving

△Follow the speed limits for each road and maintain a safe distance

△Let go of impatience and practice considerate and yielding driving

△Do not use smartphones or video devices while driving

△Absolutely avoid drunk driving, speeding, and running red lights

△If you feel sleepy, take a break at a rest area

△Be cautious of pedestrians and bicycles on local roads

△Be careful of black ice, potholes, and other hazards

[Asia Economy Reporter Park So-yeon] There are many things to prepare for when driving long distances. With the Lunar New Year holiday approaching, let's review vehicle inspection points and safe driving tips.

Pre-maintenance before long-distance driving is essential to protect your own safety. Key points to check in advance include fluids, rubber parts, and bulbs. Checking tire condition is the most important inspection point. Most tire problems during driving are caused by insufficient air pressure. Since air pressure drops when the temperature falls, it must be replenished. You can get a free check at a nearby service center, and the recommended air pressure can be found in the manual or on a sticker attached to the vehicle body next to the driver's seat.

You should also check belts inside the engine room and the windshield wipers. If you hear metallic noises from the engine room or the belt sounds louder than usual, it is advisable to have it inspected. If a belt breaks while driving, related systems may also be damaged.

If the wipers do not clean properly when operated, replace them with new ones. It is also good to fill the washer fluid sufficiently in advance.

It is recommended to clean headlights, turn signals, and taillights thoroughly. This ensures the driver's visibility and helps other vehicles easily recognize your position.

Check that all lamps work properly in preparation for night driving. If a blue icon, not green, appears on the instrument panel, it means the high beams are on. Since high beams can temporarily blind drivers of cars ahead or oncoming vehicles, caution is advised.

Since you will be driving long distances, checking the coolant (antifreeze) level is important. If the coolant level is low or the condition is poor, the engine may overheat. If the antifreeze ratio is low, the coolant can freeze when the temperature drops, damaging the radiator and cooling system.

Unusual smells, vibrations while driving, or pulling to one side are signs of vehicle problems. Engine oil or coolant leaks can cause odors to enter the cabin through the air conditioner, and wiring issues may cause burning smells. Problems with tires or the drivetrain can cause the vehicle to pull to one side. In such cases, visit a service center immediately.

During periods of rapidly increasing traffic volume, proper lane usage is also important. A designated lane system is in operation that specifies vehicle types allowed per lane.

When driving long distances, sitting in the same position for a long time lowers oxygen levels inside the car and the heater can cause drowsiness. It is recommended to stop at a rest area every two hours to walk lightly and stretch.