Peter Parker’s Uncle Ben has a very powerful adage that we can all use: “With Great Power Comes Great Responsibilities.” Same goes with owning a car. Many can see the perks, but tends to forget the responsibilities of owning one.
Owning and maintaining a car in its best form is like looking at an iceberg. It has more than a handful to take care of for it to take care of the driver and passengers. Long drives or short trips, we need to check several items on our car to ensure safe and enjoyable rides. For you to remember it easily, bear in mind the acronym BLOWBAG.
Some of the important parts of the car that you must check are defined by the acronym BLOWBAG which means—Battery, Lights, Oil, Water, Brakes, Air and Gas.
Battery. Check if your battery is still in good condition: has enough juice, bears no corrosion and is clamped tightly on the car. When your car has difficulty cranking up to start your car, you should consider replacing your battery.
Lights. This does not simply is about the rear and fog lights. Ensure that fog lamps, signal lamps, high mount stop lamps, and daytime running lights should be on tip-top shape. Not only does it provide better visibility during the night time, it also saves you from the hassle of paying a P5,000 fine for faulty lights.
Oil. Your engine needs proper and sufficient lubrication, better check if your oil is enough and is still in the best condition. Check if it’s still as clear as honey, and oil level is in full. If it’s already dark, you should replace that so as not to damage the vehicle.
Water. Just like you, your car needs to cool down. To prevent from overheating, check if your water is enough. If the reservoir is losing water, it’s best to have the car checked.
Brakes. Check if your brakes are already worn out, best to bring it to reliable mechanic or repair shop to have it inspected. While at the shop, have the drive train components and suspension check too, to ensure full control of the vehicle.
Air. See if the tires are properly inflated so as to reduce the risk of blow out. Aside from that under inflated tires, it can also increase fuel consumption and uneven tire wear.
Gas (fuel). Vehicles don’t run on empty; so better be sure it has enough fuel where you can have it refuelled that is not far from the route.
And just like the car, you also need to check if you, the driver, have enough to go through the driving. Once everything has been cleared, you can now hit the road.
*Infographic courtesy of securitymatters.com.ph