On the Way Home for the Holidays... "Check Your Vehicle First"

On the first day of the Chuseok holiday, the 12th, traffic is slow on the southbound lanes (right side) near Jamwon IC on the Gyeongbu Expressway in Seocho-gu, Seoul, causing congestion. Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] With the Lunar New Year holiday approaching, many travelers returning to their hometowns must undertake long-distance drives spanning hundreds of kilometers. Experts advise that since long-distance driving is common during the holidays, thoroughly inspecting and servicing vehicles beforehand can prevent mishaps during the holiday period.

According to the automotive industry on the 24th, most free inspection services operated by domestic automakers ended on the 23rd. Due to the introduction of the 52-hour workweek system, most companies only provide services until just before the holiday.

On the other hand, some companies continue to offer free inspection services during the holidays. Nexen Tire is conducting free tire inspections at two locations until the 24th: Yongin Rest Area on the Yeongdong Expressway (toward Gangneung) and Chilgok Rest Area on the Gyeongbu Expressway (toward Busan). Nexen Tire provides free services such as checking tire pressure and wear status, refilling washer fluid, and disinfecting the vehicle interior.

Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance will offer free vehicle inspection services until the 27th. During this period, customers visiting Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance's Hi-Car Plaza nationwide will receive free inspections covering 29 items, including battery voltage and tire pressure checks, performed by Hi-Car Plaza maintenance technicians.

If free inspections are not available, at least perform a self-diagnosis. For self-inspection methods, it is recommended to refer to the official blog of the Korea Transportation Safety Authority (https://blog.naver.com/autolog/221781492831).

According to the Korea Transportation Safety Authority, considering long-distance high-speed driving, it is advisable to inflate tires 10-15% above the recommended pressure. In particular, for tires, check the 'triangle (△)' mark on the sidewall or replace the tire if the tread wear indicator protrusion aligns with the tread surface.

Headlights, taillights, and turn signals must be checked for the safety of others, and their proper operation should be visually confirmed by stepping out of the vehicle.

For washer fluid, tap water can be used in summer, but in winter, antifreeze washer fluid must be used. Engine coolant or antifreeze should never be used as washer fluid.

Engine oil levels should be checked by opening the hood and using the dipstick. Inspections must be done with the engine off, and if the oil level is near the 'L' mark, engine oil should be replenished. If metal particles or foreign substances are found, visit a repair shop for inspection.