Drive slowly on back roads especially if your car is low as you might pierce your oil pan while going over boulders.
To drive over soft spots and to increase traction you might have to slightly deflate your tires. When you park, cover your car with a blanket as this will reduce the heat inside the car. When sunlight goes through glass the wavelength changes and the heat waves from this light cannot leave the inside of the car. For this reason a cover should be placed on the outside of the glass to keep the inside cool. Do not leave animals in a car.
In general if your car breaks down on a traveled route stay with it as it:
- Contains your survival tools and water.
- Has items that can be used for survival.
- Side mirrors for signaling.
- Hubcaps to collect water and cooking.
- Spare tire to burn as a rescue signal because black smoke can be seen over a large distance.
- Seats can be used as a bed.
- Car provides shade.
- Battery can be used to light a fire with the cigarette lighter or two wires.
- If car still works or battery is strong headlights can be used for night time signaling.
- Battery can be used to magnetize a needle to use as a compass.
- If you leave your car make sure of your route and where you will get your next drink of water. Scavenge your car before you leave but do not take too many heavy things.
Take:
- Water.
- Mirrors for signaling.
- Seat covers to cover head or use as blanket.
- Leave a note in the car to indicate direction of travel and leave blazes on your route.
- Fuel to help you start a fire during the desert’s cold nights.
Do not leave the car during the heat of the day.