What are the key points to check before a long-distance trip? — A comprehensive checklist for Hong Kong car owners (from my personal experience)

Hello everyone, I'm your car owner editor 👨💻. As a Hong Kong driver who frequently takes family and friends on road trips to Lantau Island, Stanley, and even long distances up north to Shenzhen, I deeply understand the importance of a thorough pre-trip vehicle inspection! A breakdown on the road is not only a disappointment but can also be dangerous. This time, I'll share a practical pre-trip vehicle inspection checklist in the most detailed and Hong Kong-specific terms, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable trip!

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1. Tires – the first line of safety

Inspection points:

• Tread depth : minimum 1.6mm, 3mm or more is recommended.
• Tire pressure : Adjust according to the recommendations on the door or in the owner's manual. Remember to measure when the tires are cold.
• Check for bulges or cracks on the sidewall to avoid tire blowouts during long-distance driving.
• Spare tire condition : whether the spare tire is inflated and whether all tools are complete (such as jack, cross key).
• Editor’s experience : I once had a tire blown when going up to Lantau Island. Fortunately, the spare tire was fine, otherwise I would have had to wait for a tow truck, which was a real bummer.

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2. Engine Oil: The basis of engine life

Inspection points:

• Oil level : Pull the dipstick to check, it should be between Min and Max.
• Oil color : New oil is golden yellow, and it needs to be replaced if it turns black; if it turns milky white, water may have entered the oil, so it should be checked immediately.
• Oil change interval : If the mileage exceeds the oil change period (usually 5,000~10,000 kilometers), remember to change the oil in advance.
• Editor’s experience : Long-distance driving at high temperatures will cause high oil pressure, and old oil will damage the engine, so don’t delay.

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3. Coolant: Prevents the water tank from boiling

Inspection points:

• Water tank water level : should be between Min and Max.
• Check whether the water tank is leaking or has any odor : Pay attention if there are water stains on the ground.
• Coolant color : transparent or colored (red, green). If it turns brown or turbid, replace it.
• Editor's advice : The most frightening thing about hiking in the mountains in summer is a car boil. I once saw a cyclist's car stalled and smoked at the top of Tai Mo Shan, and he had to wait for a tow truck. It was so embarrassing!

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4. Battery – the lifeblood of vehicle startup

Inspection points:

• Voltage : Normally it should be 12.6V or above.
• Check if there is oxidation/white powder on the battery column .
• Battery age : Generally needs to be replaced after about 3 years.
• Friendly reminder from the editor : If you park outdoors for a long time or turn on the air conditioner to listen to music at night, it is easy to "run out of power" if the battery is weak!

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5. Brakes: A life-saving safety talisman

Inspection points:

• Brake fluid : There should be enough fluid and the color should not be too dark.
• Brake pads/discs : Are they thick enough? Are there any unusual sounds or vibrations?
• Is there any deviation when braking ? If so, it is best to go to the garage for inspection.
• Editor’s experience : Braking is essential when going down the slope of Tai Mo Shan, otherwise you may lose control in a matter of minutes.

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6. Lights – essential for nighttime and tunnels

Inspection points:

• Headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn lights : All must be on, especially when driving at night, on mountain roads, or on highways.
• Fog lights : Especially important during the rainy season or when driving north.
• Editor's suggestion : Sometimes it's hard to detect when light bulbs are aging, so check each one before leaving.

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7. Wipers & Washer Fluid – A Must-Have for Rainy Hong Kong

Inspection points:

• Check whether the wiper blades are hardened/cracked , and whether there are "marks" when wiping the water.
• Is windshield washer fluid enough? It is recommended to use special windshield washer fluid for more effective cleaning.
• Editor’s experience : I have experienced red rain and the wipers are powerless, vision is blurred, and it is very dangerous!

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8. Transmission Fluid, Differential Oil

Inspection points:

• Automatic/manual transmission vehicles : gearbox oil level and color (pink/red is better, if it turns brown, it needs to be replaced).
• Differential oil : Check if you plan to go up a mountain or go off-road.

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9. Belts, bearings, air conditioning systems

Inspection points:

• Is the belt cracked/loose ?
• Is there any abnormal sound from the bearing ?
• Is the air conditioner blowing cold air? (Driving long distances in Hong Kong in the summer is essential without air conditioning!)
• The editor’s experience : When the belt breaks, the whole car stalls, and when the air conditioner breaks down, everyone feels uncomfortable.

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10. Dashboard warning lights

• Check if the engine, ABS, and tire pressure warning lights are on.
• If you find anything unusual, get checked out immediately and don't take the risk of driving long distances.

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11. Doors/windows/locks/seat belts

• Door locks and window machines operate normally .
• The seat belt has sufficient rebound force .
• Editor's tip : When traveling long distances with many passengers, all seat belts must be used. Problems with the window machine will affect escape.

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12. GPS & Communication

• **Navigation device (mobile phone, car GPS)** Update the map.
• Charging cable/car charger are provided.
• Have your Octopus/ETC/highway toll card ready.
• Editor's reminder : When traveling to Shenzhen and Macau, you must prepare a mainland navigation app and SIM card!

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13.Essential emergency supplies

• Spare water, food, small fire extinguisher, reflective clothing, first aid kit, flashlight .
• Jump Start Cable .
• Editor’s experience : I was once stuck in a three-hour traffic jam on Lantau Island, and water and snacks were a lifesaver.

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14. Interior space and luggage

• Place your luggage securely to prevent it from flying out during sudden braking.
• The seats are comfortable to adjust , making it especially comfortable and safe for long-distance travel.
• The editor recommends : Bring an extra towel, umbrella, and power bank, which is convenient and practical.

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15. Final summary before departure: My personal "one-minute check method"

The night before departure, check everything yourself. Don't be anxious. It's better to leave later to be safe.

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The editor concludes: "Prevention is better than cure, so be safe and have fun!"

Hong Kong’s road conditions are ever-changing. Whether you’re driving to Sai Kung, Stanley, Pak Tam Chung, or heading north to Shenzhen and Macau, safety checks are essential for long-distance self-driving.
Our sincere advice: Even if your car is new, get it checked. Accidents often stem from carelessness. Spending an extra 10-15 minutes checking your car before every trip is like buying extra peace of mind for you and your family.

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Have you ever faced a long-distance travel crisis? Do you have any special tips you'd like to share? Leave a comment and let's discuss it with us! 🚗🛣️