Before setting out on a road trip, the most logical thing is to take the vehicle to the mechanic to make sure everything is in perfect condition. Many drivers consider this practice a necessity, almost a ritual, to guarantee safety on the road. However, according to a well-known mechanic on TikTok, this habit might not be as convenient as it seems.
Billy, a mechanic who has thousands of followers, has sparked a major debate by warning about the risks of taking the car to the shop right before a long trip. In a viral video with more than 400,000 views, he shares his experience and explains why this is a practice that should be avoided.
The warning from a viral mechanic
Billy made it clear in his video that, while it might seem like a good idea to do a final check before the trip, this can lead to unwanted consequences. In his example, a broken cable was found in a car that had been checked right before a long journey. His message is clear: "Don't take the car to the mechanic right before the trip," finding a last-minute problem can delay your trip and, in many cases, force you to cancel it.
The biggest drawback of this practice is that if the mechanic detects a serious problem, there isn't enough time to repair it properly before leaving. Billy points out that many mechanics feel the pressure to work quickly when they know the car needs to be ready for an important trip. This urgent environment can affect the quality of the work and increase the risk of mistakes.
What is the best time to check your car?
Billy's advice is simple: plan ahead. If you take your car to the mechanic between 7 and 10 days before the trip, you'll have enough time to make any necessary repairs without affecting your itinerary. This time frame also allows for the arrival of spare parts if needed.
It's important to remember that regular car maintenance shouldn't be done only before a trip. Checking the vehicle preventively from time to time, such as before each season or after a certain number of miles (kilometers), is key to being able to avoid surprises.
What should you check before leaving?
Although Billy doesn't recommend a last-minute check, there are some tasks you can do yourself before traveling. Check the pressure and condition of the tires, including the spare. Make sure the fluid levels, such as oil and coolant, are at the right level.
Check the lights and brakes, especially if you notice strange noises or vibrations. Don't forget to check the air conditioning and windshield wipers to avoid problems during the trip. In addition, it's advisable to have an emergency kit with water, jumper cables, and a first aid kit.
The key to Billy's message is not to wait until the last minute to check your car. The more time you spend planning and keeping your vehicle, the fewer surprises you'll have on the road. Good maintenance isn't a solution before a trip, but a strategy that will help you enjoy safe and trouble-free journeys.