The automobile market in Cambodia is booming. In 2024, new car sales there surpassed 53,000 units. This marks an 18% year-on-year increase. Used car imports reached an even higher 72,000 units.
International brands like BYD and Chevrolet are now setting up assembly plants in Cambodia. This gives local consumers more choices for a car for sale in Cambodia. They can especially find more SUV and pickup truck models perfect for long drives.
01 Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
Start your long-distance road trip right with a full vehicle check. Many people skip this step. However, statistics show that neglecting simple maintenance causes over 60% of long-distance travel issues.
Inspecting key components systematically prevents potential failures. Remember, engine fluids are your vehicle’s lifeblood. Before you leave, check the levels of engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
Change the oil and filters early if your vehicle is near its maintenance interval. This keeps your engine in optimal condition for the entire journey.
Also, pay close attention to the battery and electrical system. Check the battery terminals for corrosion. You should professionally test or replace batteries older than three years. This simple step avoids failures in remote areas.
Your tires are the only contact point with the road. They directly impact safety. Check the tire tread depth for sufficient traction. Also, adjust the tire pressure to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. Do not forget to check your spare tire’s condition and air pressure.
02 Comprehensive Safety System Assessment
Your braking system is the core of driving safety. Never ignore any abnormality. Hear sharp noises or feel a soft brake pedal? Have a professional technician inspect the brake pads, discs, and fluid immediately.
Your lighting system is also critical for long trips. This is especially true for night driving or in bad weather.
Test each light one by one. Check headlights (use high beams too), brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights. Ensure every bulb works. Good lighting helps you see the road. It also makes other drivers see you.
Remember to inspect your air conditioning before a long trip. This is very important in warm seasons. Make sure the AC blows cold air normally. Notice weak airflow or poor cooling? You may need to recharge the refrigerant or seek other maintenance.
03 Emergency Kit Preparation
Even the best vehicle can face surprises on a long journey. A well-equipped emergency kit keeps you safe and comfortable during unexpected events.
Your kit must have a working spare tire (keep it inflated), a jack, and a lug wrench. Many new cars only have a “mobility kit” with an inflator and sealant. Always check what your vehicle carries before you travel.
Here is a complete list of essentials for a long-distance road trip:
- Basic Safety Tools: Jumper cables, a basic tool set, a tire repair kit.
- Lighting and Warning Devices: A flashlight with extra batteries, reflective warning triangles or road flares. These enhance visibility during nighttime breakdowns.
- Emergency Supplies: Pack at least one gallon of bottled water per person. Also bring non-perishable snacks like protein bars or beef jerky.
- Comfort and Protection Items: A first-aid kit, warm blankets, and a poncho.
- Communication and Navigation Backup: Paper maps are crucial if your phone loses signal. Also pack a portable power bank.
04 Journey Planning and Driving Preparation
Good planning makes a successful long-distance drive. Use digital apps for real-time traffic information. This significantly improves your journey’s smoothness. Google Maps plans the fastest route and estimates arrival times. Waze gives real-time alerts for accidents, police, or road closures.
Traveling where gas stations are sparse or fuel is expensive? Apps like GasBuddy find the cheapest and nearest fuel stops. Also, always monitor weather forecasts. This helps you prepare for potential conditions ahead.
Long-distance driving tests both your vehicle and your own endurance. Ensure you get adequate sleep the night before. During the journey, take a break every two hours. Move your body and stretch your limbs. Keep the car well-ventilated and play soothing music to reduce fatigue.
Traveling with family? Prepare entertainment for children in advance. Use digital games, coloring books, or songs to keep them content. Also, keep healthy snacks and plenty of water within easy reach.
05 Choosing the Right Vehicle
Planning to buy a vehicle for long-distance travel? The Cambodian market offers various options. Local consumers strongly demand SUVs and pickup trucks. They favor these models for their space and off-road capability. Note that SUVs and crossovers suitable for long journeys are increasingly available locally.
Cambodia’s automotive industry is transforming. More and more international brands are setting up local assembly plants. For example, BYD established a plant in Cambodia. They invested about $32 million. Its annual capacity should reach 10,000 vehicles. Meanwhile, General Motors (USA) plans to build a Chevrolet assembly plant there too.
These developments give Cambodian consumers easier access to great road trip models. When you select a car for sale in Cambodia, consider more than space and comfort. Also pay attention to convenient maintenance and repair services. Some Chinese brands offer competitive after-sales services there. For instance, they provide warranty policies covering 5 years or 150,000 kilometers.
As the sun sets, Angkor Wat’s silhouette fades in the twilight. On Phnom Penh’s streets, the evening commute flows steadily. You can see vehicles meticulously prepared for long journeys.
More and more car for sale in Cambodia models are finding their way into households. Consequently, long-distance road tripping is becoming a popular lifestyle, not just a mode of transport.
Check that last bit of tire pressure. Organize your emergency kit. By doing so, you determine much of your journey’s success before you even depart.
Looking for top-quality new or used cars? Trust DG Motors for fast, reliable service—or visit our Phnom Penh showroom today!
