What seemed like a good idea has turned out to be a big mistake, at least according to a mechanic with thousands of followers. His warning has raised alarms among drivers planning to go on a road trip this summer.
On TikTok, an American mechanic named Billy has gone viral for sharing tips that break with the usual. In his latest video, he issues a direct warning to those who decide to have their car checked right before leaving on vacation.
Why you shouldn't go to the shop right before the trip
Billy's video has already racked up more than 400,000 views on TikTok. In it, he explains that taking the car to the mechanic right before traveling can cause more problems than solutions. The reason is simple: if the car has a breakdown, the mechanic may be forced to make a quick repair.
That, far from being ideal, can result in a poorly done or incomplete job. In extreme cases, the driver risks not having the car ready in time and, therefore, missing the trip. Billy shows how a customer discovered a serious problem in his car just two days before leaving, which ruined his plans.
The best time to check your car
The key is prevention. Billy, and other professionals in the field, agree that the best thing is to keep the car in good condition on a regular basis. If you know you're going to take a long trip, the ideal is to schedule the checkup between 7 and 10 days before.
That way, if a breakdown occurs or a replacement part is needed, you'll have time to fix it. In addition, it's recommended not to tell the mechanic that you're going on a trip. You'll avoid adding unnecessary pressure that could affect the quality of the work.
What you can check yourself
There are parts of the car that anyone can check at home without technical knowledge. For example, make sure all the lights work properly, including the turn signals and brakes. It's also easy to check the oil, coolant (refrigerant), and windshield washer fluid levels.
Don't forget to check the tire pressure, including the spare, and the air conditioning system. Carrying a complete emergency kit is another essential measure. It includes water, a first aid kit, jumper cables, and basic tools.
Tips for a safe and trouble-free trip
Plan your visits to the shop in advance, even if you don't have a trip planned. Don't leave something as important as your vehicle's safety until the last minute. Avoid revealing your travel dates to the mechanic; some workers may act more hastily and less precisely if they feel deadline pressure.
Finally, remember to always check the brakes, lights, and tires. A well-prepared car is the best guarantee of a vacation without surprises.