When putting the spare or repaired wheel back on, we must make sure that all nuts are properly tightened. Another tip is to avoid excess luggage, which not only reduces comfort but also affects the car's handling. If you are going to travel 8,000 kilometers and then do another 2,000, it is best to service the car beforehand so that the oil does not break down or get ugly,” added Pérsico. The same professional stated that it is essential to check for fluid leaks and that the battery is in good condition, using a battery tester. “The water for the ‘squeegee’ and the wiper blades should also be checked.” The next step is to check the tires and lights. The condition of the tires is central to the car's stability. Leaving with enough time helps to avoid risky maneuvers and maintain a more relaxed driving style. Finally, it is recommended to have mechanical assistance on hand in case of any unforeseen events. A single burnt-out bulb can create risky situations on the road, in addition to being punishable at traffic controls. This is in addition to mandatory safety elements, such as the fire extinguisher – which must have a valid charge certificate – and reflective signage – portable flares or reflective triangles. Likewise, it is advisable to plan the route in advance, check on the condition of the roads, and consult the weather forecast. An electrical failure, a tire problem, or a dead battery can be quickly and safely resolved through a specialized service. Meanwhile, the professional stated that when changing a tire, “the first thing is to place the jack correctly in the spot marked by the car, usually in the sill, about 15 to 20 centimeters from the end, where it is reinforced.” The next step is “to loosen the wheel, always controlling the security nut,” the mechanic pointed out. It is advisable to check the pressure – including the spare tire – and to control that the tread has the appropriate depth. Additionally, you can “check the manufacturing date of the tires, which is engraved on each one, and how long it was ‘stored’ before hitting the streets, because that can affect its condition,” the expert stated. In parallel, all lights must function correctly: low beams, high beams, turn signals, brake lights, and hazard lights. Thus, it is suggested to distribute the weight and avoid loose objects inside the passenger compartment. Buenos Aires, January 2 (NA) -- With the start of the 2026 vacation season, specialists shared a list of precautions for users who decide to travel by car and cover long distances, either nationally or internationally. According to what Noticias Argentinas agency learned, the Argentine Automobile Club (ACA), along with its mechanics, have listed a series of elements to check in the car before getting behind the wheel and starting the engine. As the experts indicated, the full mechanical inspection must include the condition of “the brakes and their fluid, the engine oil level, the cooling fluid, and the steering system,” stated Laureano Pérsico, an ACA assistance mechanic. It should be remembered that “the oil and filter change must be done every 10,000 km or once a year. And if it is a 0 km.
