Summer is here! And after months of being cooped up inside, you can hardly wait to load up the car and head out on the highway for an adventure. But before you hit the road, you’ll want to do some vehicle care to ensure your ride is up to the task. Here are some handy tips on how to prepare your car for a summer road trip.
Test your brakes
Brakes are the most important components of any vehicle. So, you will want to test them out before your journey. If you notice any strange squeaking and scraping sounds when you apply the brakes, make sure to get the pads replaced. Also, don’t forget to add some brake fluid if those pedals feel spongy.
Check your battery
Nothing can put a halt on a road trip faster than a dead battery. Corrosion buildup on the terminals can compromise your battery’s performance, leading to excessive power drainage and premature failure.
If there is corrosion on your battery, scrub the terminals with a toothbrush, using a cleaning baking soda and water solution. When you are done, rinse the battery and dry it off with a clean cloth.
While you are sprucing up the terminals, make sure to pack jumper cables in your car in case your battery needs some juice.
Top up your vehicle’s fluids
Fluids are the life blood of any vehicle. Before you start off on your summer road trip, get those fluids topped up. Changing your oil and adding power steering, brake, windshield washer, and transmission fluid will go a long way to ensuring your vehicle (and your vacation) runs smoothly.
Examine your tires
Your tires are going to be put to the test during your summer road trip—so give them the care they deserve. Check each tire, ensuring they are all properly inflated (don’t forget to check your spare’s air pressure too). It’s also a good idea to inspect your tire treads. Worn tires can be dangerous, especially on wet, slippery roads.
Inspect your lights
Are your lights in good working order? Look at the headlights, blinkers, brake lights, hazard lights, and reverse lights. If any of them are damaged or burned out, replace them before you take to the roads this summer.
- If your car’s body is damaged along the way, here’s what to look for in a trustworthy autobody shop
Check the A/C
After a long, cold winter, it has probably been awhile since you have cranked up that air conditioner. If the A/C isn’t blasting out cold air the way it should be, take your car into a professional for a checkup. The last thing you want is to be stuck in a car in sweltering temperatures during your road trip.
Taking the time to do a little car care prep before you head out on the road will pay big dividends later. From everyone at On Line Collision, we wish you a fun and safe summer road trip.
If your vehicle suffers any surface damages on your trip, check out Langley’s ICBC Vehicle Repair Shop Specialists. Contact us to learn more.
