4 steps to prepare your engine for a long journey
By Bardahl • The 3/6/2025 • 5 min reading
Are you planning a long car journey? Whether for work or vacation? If you want to avoid unpleasant surprises, we have some tips for you.
Check the levels
Ideally, before traveling very long distances, it is recommended to have your vehicle serviced. This includes an oil change, with the appropriate oil (following the manufacturer's recommendations) and, if necessary, replacing certain filters (air and fuel, in particular). In all cases, you must ensure that the fluid levels are correct, between the minimum and maximum index.
First, there's the oil level. Because without enough oil, an engine breaks down! Indeed, the main task of oil is to lubricate moving mechanical parts to reduce friction and, more generally, wear.
Then there's coolant. Without it, the engine will overheat and most likely break down. Coolant is an antifreeze, so avoid using water instead of coolant in winter at all costs! This advice also applies to windshield washer fluid.
Although it doesn't concern the engine, there's the brake fluid level. Without brake fluid, your braking system will no longer function, putting you and other road users at risk.
Finally, there's also the power steering fluid level. Without power steering, you'll be able to continue driving, but with much less comfort and, therefore, greater fatigue upon arrival.
Bardahl produces all the fluids necessary for the proper functioning of your car. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations when choosing these different fluids.
Consider cleaning the heart of your engine
If you're taking a long trip, it's also a good time to clean the inside of your engine. How? Simply add an additive to your fuel tank when you fill up. Bardahl's 5-in-1 Cleaner (gasoline, including hybrids, or diesel) cleans and protects the injection system, as well as technical components such as the turbo, particulate filter, catalytic converter, EGR valve, and valves. A healthy engine consumes less fuel. And to further reduce your consumption, Bardahl has developed "Consume Less," available with gasoline or diesel engines.
Check the battery condition
It's not a technical component of the engine, but without a battery, the engine won't start! It's therefore essential that the battery is in good condition when the big departure comes. How can you tell? By checking its voltage with a multimeter or by contacting a professional.
Is the air conditioning in good condition?
If you're heading to sunny, hot weather, air conditioning is an essential part of your daily routine. Air conditioning requires recharging and maintenance. Bardahl Air Conditioning Disinfectant thoroughly disinfects the air system to eliminate viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Bardahl Cabin Purifier purifies the air while disinfecting the surfaces inside the cabin.
Among the other essential elements to check, let's also mention the condition of the tires, including the pressure. But also the proper functioning of the lights: indicators, dipped beams, main beams, brake lights and fog lights. To find out more, consult our checklist before hitting the road for your holidays .