Get Road Trip Ready

Once you decide to take a road trip you need to make sure your vehicle is ready and safe. You can go to your mechanic and ask him to do a pre-trip maintenance check.  In this article we will cover a few of the important reasons.  To begin with it improves your performance, keeps you safe, saves you money and gives you peace of mind.

Oil

You will want to be sure that your oil has been changed and that your filters are in good shape.  By changing your oil on a regular basis it improves the longevity of your motor and assists in your gas mileage.  During your oil change they should also be checking that your lights and fluids are all in good shape for your trip.  

Tires

Next you want to ensure that your tires are properly inflated, rotated on a consistent basis for even tread wear, as well as having your wheels aligned.  Again this is going to give you better gas mileage. And keep you, your family and others on the road safe. Tires can be one of the most common items to fail during a road trip.

Battery

Batteries need to be maintained as well.  Regular testing can ensure that your battery starts your vehicle in any weather conditions.  But you may want to check your terminals to be sure they are clean.   

Cooling

Second most common item to keep in mind is your cooling system.  How many times have you been driving down the highway and see a family on the side of the road?  Don’t let that be you.  Check your coolant levels.

Brakes

Proper maintenance and care of the brakes and braking system are important for your vehicle’s safe operation.  Brakes should be at least ¼ inch thick or more.

Wipers

During a road trip you are most likely going to be going through lots of insects so you want your wipers to be in good condition and that your washer fluid is full.  

In closing it might feel like it’s a waste of time and money to do routine maintenance however in the long run you very well could be saving yourself from being stuck on the side of the road when your vehicle breaks down and puts a damper on your exciting road trip.

To make an appointment for your next service go to our Appointment page.

Sources: Atlantic Tire Online, Bryant Motors