Driving Upcountry For Christmas? Read Tips On How To Prepare For Your Trip To Ushago

Most Kenyans are on their Christmas breaks and traveling upcountry to spend the festive season with their loved ones. As bus fares and air ticket prices shoot through the roof, it makes economic sense to drive your family to ushago rather than rely on public transport.

However, the journey to the upcountry is a long one and needs a bit of preparation. The problem is that most people focus the preparations on themselves, but they give minimal attention to the means that are supposed to deliver them safely to their destination- the car.

You need to be sure that the car is up for the challenge. Your preparations before traveling upcountry should consider the type of car, distance, road surface, and the terrains you’ll be driving in.

How to Prepare Your Car Before Driving Upcountry

Laban, a Peach inspector, recommends doing a comprehensive inspection of your car. A mechanical check will help you identify issues that need to be addressed before the journey. 

So, what should you do to ensure that your car serves you as desired? Your preparation should focus on the following areas:

1. The condition of the tires

More than anything else, ensure that your tires are in good condition. Their condition affects your car’s grip on the road, your fuel efficiency, and the performance of your brakes. Defective tires can be fatal. Check out for any protrusions on the tires, and ensure the air pressure is at recommended levels. Over- or under-inflated tires aren’t safe on the road. Underinflated tires increase wear and tear, while overinflated tires can compromise handling.

2. Wheel balancing and alignment

If your tire pressure is right but there’s squealing on them, the car pulls to one side, or you feel a vibration on the steering wheel when driving then you might be dealing with poor wheel alignment. Here are other common signs of bad wheel alignment. A year of dealing with potholes and unregulated speed bumps in the estates can mess up your wheel alignment. 

You need wheel alignment and balancing before you get on the highway. Good wheel alignment should be computerized, so it’s advisable to visit a reputable service center such as Auto Express. 

3. Car fluids

Fluids such as coolant and engine oil ensure that your engine is well-lubricated and functioning perfectly. A badly lubricated engine will most certainly generate excessive heat and seize. This will ruin your holiday plans and festive mood, and definitely hurt your pockets. 

Instead of waiting for your warning lights to go off, take a proactive step. Have your fluid levels (and quality) examined before starting your journey. You should also ensure that the radiator is functioning properly.

4. Brake functions

During this period, you’ll meet all types of drivers on the highway. Those who drive like they never went to a driving school. Maniac drivers. PSV drivers trying to make as many trips while the fares are still high. “Grandma” drivers, etc. As a result, you may need to use your brakes more than you’d imagine. 

Before traveling upcountry, have a qualified professional inspect your brake pads and discs. Replace old or worn-out brake pads and discs. You’ll know they need replacing when you hear screeching while braking, heavy vibrating, or your car pulling to one side as you press down on the brake pedal. It may also take longer than usual for the car to slow down when braking if the brake pads and discs are worn out.

While at it, ensure that your brake lights are also working. These bulbs help you to communicate with other road users when you’re slowing down.

5. Air conditioning

All the above checks focus on your safety while on the road. But your comfort is just as important. You’re not going to drive for over 700km in a car without proper cabin ventilation. Check the air conditioning system and ensure the compressor, gas and all the other pipes are working well. You should also replace and install new air filters before your journey. They control the quality of air coming into your vehicle. This DIY video takes you through how to change your air filter.

Drive Safe, Enjoy Your Holiday Travels

Nothing makes gliding down a smooth highway more rewarding than a perfectly serviced vehicle. There are simple DIY checks you can handle yourself. There are simple DIY checks you can handle yourself. However, complex tasks such as engine diagnosis need a professional touch. Additionally, ensure you have a car emergency kit. It should contain essential items such as spare parts, jumper cables, and a first aid kit. 

Above all, observe good driving habits. Observe traffic rules, be mindful of other road users, and don’t drink and drive. Arrive alive!

Happy Holidays!