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As summer winds down, most of San Diego begins to cool off for some crisp and enjoyable fall evenings. However, the inland and desert areas can still remain quite warm, and may often require special considerations when driving through them. It’s always best to be prepared and understand how desert driving can affect your vehicle as well as your driving plans.
The San Diego East County Deserts can provide you with some of the most scenic driving in the country — you can spot boundless wildlife as well as unique desert vegetation. Here are some important factors if you plan to take a trip anytime soon through the desert.
Pack Plenty of Water for Your Desert Driving Trip
Perhaps the most important part of preparing for San Diego desert driving is to ensure that you have plenty of water. If your car breaks down and you need to wait for a tow or other assistance, you’ll want to make sure you have enough hydration for yourself and your passengers. Stock up before you leave and make sure there’s enough for everyone.
You will also want to pack extra water/coolant for your radiator in case your car overheats. Overheating is a serious concern when driving through the desert, as the ambient temperatures can really push engine operations to their limits.
Watch the Terrain
While some deserts consist of long, empty stretches of road, some of them can contain some windy paths and curves. This especially true of desert regions that have mountain ranges, cliffs, or hills. Study your route before you leave to at least get a feel for when the terrain might change.
Also, don’t underestimate the long, empty stretches of road mentioned above — a common pitfall here is drowsiness. Be sure you’re well rested and energized for the trip.
Know Your Vehicle
Every vehicle is built differently and for different purposes. You should know the limits of your vehicle in terms of desert conditions. For instance, a large RV is not going to be equipped to go off-road on bumpy paths. Likewise, a convertible might not always be the best idea if you’re trying to avoid sunburns.
Before you hit the road, be sure to familiarize yourself with your vehicle. Learn where everything is located: hazard lights, flat-tire changing tools, etc. This is especially important if you’re renting a car or driving a car that isn’t your own.
Be Sure Your Car is in Excellent Condition
Be sure that your car is in excellent working condition if you plan to take a trip through the deserts in and around California. Make sure your car is properly tuned-up and that all major services and repairs are taken care of before you embark on your adventure. As mentioned, probably the most crucial part is to make sure your car won’t overheat. Stop by Convoy Auto Repair today for complete car checkups and other services before the road trip.
Off-Road Desert Driving Precautions
Lastly, if you plan to go off-roading, it’s always safest to do so in designated areas and, if you can, with a group or off-roading tour. Some off-roading spots can be slightly “off-the-grid” in terms of phone accessibility; you may want to consider packing a satellite phone, in case you’re in a spot with no service.
As mentioned above, know your vehicle, but also know your own skills and driving limits! Pack survival gear too, and if you plan to be out at night, remember that the desert can get cold once the sun goes down!
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San Diego desert driving can be fun and relaxing. Be sure to follow these tips to ensure your safety so you can have a more enjoyable time! If you need any major repairs or automotive services, stop by Convoy Auto Repair for specials, or schedule an appointment today. Our team of certified mechanics is ready to provide you with top-notch care for your vehicle.