Pre-Trip Vehicle Checks Before Heading to Istanbul

Engine Oil and Fluid Levels
Before embarking on a long journey to Istanbul, it is essential to check your vehicle's engine oil and other fluid levels. Engine oil is one of the most critical components to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly. If the engine oil level is low, it could lead to overheating or engine failures. Also, ensure that other fluid levels such as brake fluid, transmission oil, and coolant are adequate.

Tire Condition and Air Pressure
Before your journey, it is very important to check your tires for your safety. When checking your tires, inspect the tread depth and look for any damage. Also, make sure that the tire air pressure is at the correct level. Low air pressure can negatively affect road grip and increase fuel consumption. Checking your tires thoroughly before departure helps prevent possible tire blowouts.

Brake System Check
Testing your brakes is essential for a safe trip. If you feel any looseness or stiffness in the brake pedal, your brake system may need maintenance. Also, check the condition of the brake pads and brake fluid levels. Efficient brakes are crucial for dealing with emergencies.

Battery Condition
The vehicle battery is a critical component for the engine to start. Before your trip, ensure that your battery is fully charged. If there are any signs of corrosion or loose connections, address them. Checking the battery voltage to make sure it’s within normal levels helps prevent a potential battery failure.

Lights, Signals, and Other Lights
It is necessary to check your vehicle’s headlights, signals, and other lights to ensure a safe trip. Properly functioning headlights are particularly important for night travel. Also, make sure that the brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights are working correctly.

Wiper Blades and Windshield Washer
During the trip, especially in adverse weather conditions, it’s crucial to have functional wipers and windshield washers. Make sure the wiper blades aren’t worn out and that your windshield washer reservoir is full. Before you leave, ensure that the wipers clean the windshield effectively and there is no water or dirt buildup on the glass.

Cooling System
To prevent your engine from overheating, the cooling system must work efficiently. Check if the radiator and hoses have any leaks. Also, check that the coolant level is adequate. Ensuring the proper function of the cooling system before departure prevents the engine from overheating.

Emergency Kit
Before your trip, make sure your vehicle has an emergency kit. This kit prepares you for various setbacks. It should contain spare fuses, first aid supplies, a simple toolset, tire repair kit, flashlight, and an emergency reflective triangle. These items will help in case of an unexpected breakdown or accident.

License and Insurance
Ensure that your vehicle's registration is valid, and your insurance is active. Check your insurance policy's coverage and validity. Before leaving, ensure all your required documents are in order to avoid any issues during traffic checks or in case of an accident.

Route Planning and Navigation
Before leaving, it’s important to plan your route to Istanbul. Choosing the best route to avoid heavy traffic can save you time. Smartphone apps and GPS devices make your trip easier, but it’s wise to download offline maps in case of a loss of internet connection.