How to Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip
How to Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip
Now that we are heading into vacation season and warmer weather, you may be planning a spring road trip. Before embarking on your journey, it is important to make sure your vehicle is prepared. No matter if you are heading across town or across the country, there are steps you can take to ensure your car is ready. From routine maintenance to needed replacements, you want to take any preparation measures prior to hitting the open road. With help from Tire Source, you can have a memorable vacation that is free from vehicle concerns.
Schedule an Oil Change
You will want to change your vehicle’s oil in preparation for a road trip. If you go too long without changing the oil, it can become dirty and thick, which puts more strain on the engine. When it is in this state, the oil cannot properly do its job of lubricating the engine, which leads to friction in the engine components. It is generally recommended to change the oil in your vehicle every five months or 5,000 miles, although that duration can vary by manufacturer. If you cannot remember the last time your vehicle had this service, you should schedule an oil change leading up to the road trip. During the oil change, the technician will also change any needed filters.
Focus on Fluids
Engine fluids help keep your vehicle running in optimal condition, but they need replaced over time. You want to have your technician flush and replace coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and brake fluid. If there is a leak and these fluids are depleted lower than they should be, it can cause issues for your vehicle and costly repairs. By making sure these fluids are clean and full before you leave, you can avoid worrying as you cruise down the road.
Plan for a Tune-Up
A tune-up is a good idea for your road trip-bound car. Driving for many miles can put stress on your vehicle’s engine if it is not properly maintained. With a tune-up, the technician identifies and replaces worn engine parts. By keeping a regular tune-up schedule, your vehicle can have improved gas mileage, better efficiency and a longer life. A tune-up will get your car ready for long days of driving on your road trip. Some common actions taken during a tune-up include:
- Replacing the air filter
- Changing the gas filters
- Swapping out worn spark plugs
- Inspecting the valve-cover gasket and adjusting the valves
- Topping off fluids
Take a Look at Your Tires
When you know you will be traveling long distances, you want your tires to hold up to the task. Take a look at the tread on your tires. If you see any warn spots, uneven wear patterns, bulges or cracks in the rubber. These are all telltale signs that your tires need replaced. Putting worn tires under the stress of long drives can lead to possible flats and other potential problems. You don’t want to spend your vacation on the side of the road. The Tire Source experts can help you determine if your tires need replaced. Even if the tires are in good condition, you still have some additional steps to take. Make sure the tires are filled to optimal pressure. Use a handheld tire pressure gauge to see where your tires are at. You can find the manufacturer’s recommended pressure on a sticker in the door jam. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines so you do not overinflate the tires.
Boost the Battery
Make sure your battery is strong enough to withstand the trip. High temperatures can be hard on a battery, especially on that is already weak. Your battery does much more than simply start the engine. It is also responsible for powering lights, wipers, seats and even the radio. Even after getting your battery checked, it is a good idea to bring along some jumper cables or a power box on your trip just in case of an emergency.
Keep Cool with Air Conditioning
If you are traveling to a warm climate, you and your passengers will be more comfortable if you get the air conditioning system checked prior to departure. When the AC is blowing air that is warm or even slightly cool, you should have your technician take a look. The technician can perform an evacuation and refill service to address the issue. Although the AC system does not affect the running of the vehicle, having properly working air conditioning will make the trip more enjoyable.
Break Time for Brakes
Brakes are a crucial part of the vehicle. You want to have your technician inspect the brake system, including brake pads and rotors. The technician may recommend a cleaning service, as well. During the brake service, the master cylinder brake fluid will be checked and addressed. If you hear a high-pitched squeal coming from your brakes, it is a good idea to have them checked, as this noise is typically an indicator of the upcoming needed service.
Contact Tire Source
Preventative maintenance can keep your vehicle running smoothly, so you can enjoy your road trip without car problems. Schedule maintenance service with our technicians before your vacation to ensure your vehicle is in top condition. Contact Tire Source today to set up an appointment. With several locations across Northeast Ohio, there is sure to be a Tire Source that is convenient for you.