A long weekend is usually the most popular time to plan vacations, especially road trips. While it is usually considered a time to unwind and break free from the daily routine, it’s highly likely that you aren’t the only one planning a trip for that exact weekend. Most of the time, such scenarios lead to heavy traffic on the expressways out of metro cities. A regular witness to this problem is the Mumbai-Pune expressway. Over the three-day Christmas 2023 weekend, there were many reports showing cars stopping at the side due to breakdowns leading to a reportedly 12 kilometre-long traffic jam. Such traffic nightmares can cause incredible stress on various components of the car. But it gets more stressful thanks to the long stretches of inclined surfaces as this expressway snakes through the ghats, which is likely why many of the breakdowns spotted were due to overheating and clutch damage. As urban congestion becomes a daily reality, mastering the art of safeguarding your car in traffic jams is paramount.
Features
Engine Health Maintenance
Long periods of idling in traffic jams can adversely affect your car's engine health. Learn how to strike a balance between turning off the engine during prolonged stops and restarting when needed.
Keep Your Cool, Literally
With temperatures soaring, your car's interior can turn into a sweltering sauna during traffic jams. Additionally, regularly servicing your car's air conditioning system ensures it functions optimally during hot spells.
Fluid Checks and Top-ups
Regularly check essential fluids like engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid to prevent any unexpected breakdowns.
Battery Health Check
Traffic jams often lead to prolonged use of electrical components, putting a strain on your car's battery. Periodically check your battery's health and terminals to avoid surprises in stop-and-go traffic. Carry jumper cables or a portable jump starter as a precautionary measure.
Brake System Assurance
Ensure your brake pads, discs, and fluid are in good condition through regular checks. Squeaky or grinding sounds could indicate brake issues that require immediate attention.
Maintain a Safe Following Distance
In stop-and-go traffic, maintaining a safe following distance is vital.
Plan for Emergencies
Traffic jams can be unpredictable, and emergencies may arise. Always carry an emergency kit in your car, including a first aid kit, basic tools, flashlight, and reflective triangles.
Key Points
In the hustle and bustle of urban life, traffic jams have become an inevitable part of our daily commutes.
- Understanding Engine Temperature: No matter the type of instrument cluster, your car comes equipped with a gauge indicating the engine temperature. An engine temperature warning light serves as an alert, signalling potential issues such as a malfunctioning radiator, coolant pump, or thermostat. In such cases, it's imperative to pull over, turn off the engine, and address the problem promptly to prevent serious damage.
- Engine Power Management: Prolonged idling in heavy traffic can lead to engine malfunctions. To mitigate this, consider switching off the engine if you anticipate being stuck in congestion for an extended period. Keep an eye on the engine warning light, as it can indicate issues such as misfiring or fuel system failures that require attention.
- Roll Down the Windows: In the midst of traffic jams, it's advisable to turn off the car's air conditioning and roll down the windows.
- Preventing Overheating: Engine overheating is a common concern during traffic jams. Regularly check and maintain the coolant levels to prevent overheating issues. If your vehicle is equipped with a temperature gauge, monitor it closely, and be attentive to warning lights. Addressing these issues promptly ensures the optimal functioning of your car's cooling system.
- Idle Stop/Start Feature: This feature automatically turns off the engine when the car is stationary and restarts it when you release the brake pedal.