Helping You Stay Driven

Pre-Trip Inspection Services in Fremont, CA

One of the best things you can do before a trip is to have your auto technician do a pre-trip inspection. It can save you a lot of heartache and wasted time on a trip if the tech finds something that could malfunction on the trip. Driven Auto Care in Fremont, CA provides pre-trip inspections. We check many visible components on your vehicle to help minimize breaking down on the trip.

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

When you bring your vehicle for a pre-trip inspection at Driven Auto Care in Fremont, CA, we check the following:

Tires: Tire pressure in all four tires and the spare, tire damage, uneven tread wear, and tread depth.
Fluids: Oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. We also check for fluid leaks.
Lights and Signals: Headlights, tail lights, turn signals, brake lights, and hazard lights.
Brakes: Check the pads and rotors and test the brakes for noise and responsiveness.
Batteries and Alternators: Check the battery voltage and whether the alternator is charging properly.
Belts and Hoses: Serpentine belts, radiator hoses, and heater hoses. We also look for leaks around the radiator and water pump.
Wipers and Windshield Washer Fluid: Check the wiper blades for dry rot, cracks, and tears, and top off the washer fluid if needed.
Engine Air Filter: Check the air filter and recommend replacing it if it is dirty and cannot be blown out with compressed air (some air filters).
Cooling System: Check the coolant level and check for coolant leaks. We also make sure the thermostat is opening when it is supposed to and that the fans are working properly.
Exhaust System: Rusty and damaged exhaust pipe, exhaust manifolds, manifold gaskets, loose components, muffler, catalytic converter.
Suspension and Steering: Test the steering for responsiveness and noise. Inspect the suspension and steering rack/gearbox for issues and leaks.

Before You Go

When packing for the trip, be sure you have the following:

Emergency Kit

The kit is more than a first-aid kit. However, if you are traveling for outdoor-related activities, such as camping and hiking, you should have more than a simple first aid kit. You can find larger first aid kits online or in any drug store.

Your emergency kit should also include:

Jumper cables
Flashlight and extra batteries
Basic tools, such as pliers, flathead and Phillips screwdrivers, adjustable wrench and hammer
An extra blanket for every person riding in the vehicle, even during the summer
An extra change of clothing that is easily accessible, especially in the winter or if it’s raining
Waterproof matches
At least a liter of water for everyone in the vehicle in the event you get stranded
Non-perishable snacks, again, in case you get stranded
A roll of paracord

Documentation

Double-check that you have your license, ID, vehicle insurance and registration, and other permits and documents you may require for traveling in another state (i.e., hunting permit, fishing permit).

Fuel

Be sure to top off before you leave. During your trip planning, you should determine where you need to stop, whether for fuel or to charge an electric vehicle.

Safety Equipment

If you break down on the road, you will need reflective vests and warning triangles. Better yet, flares can be seen a long distance and are good to have if you’re stuck in the middle of the mountains.

GPS and Navigation

Make sure your GPS and navigation are working properly should you need it.

Load Distribution

If you are towing a trailer or hauling a slide-on camper, make sure the units are properly packed and the load distribution is even. If you are towing a motorcycle trailer or towing a vehicle behind an RV, check all tie-downs and load distribution.

Contact Driven Auto Care in Fremont, CA

When it’s time for a Pre-Trip inspection, reach out to Driven Auto Care at (510) 659-9718 for an appointment. We are conveniently located at 40931 Albrae St., Fremont, CA 94538.