5 Tips to Get Your Vehicle Summer Road Trip Ready

Road trips are part of the American way of life. There’s nothing like getting behind the wheel of your car and having the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want. However, if you want to make sure your trip goes off without a hitch, you should get it ready for that summer road trip, that way you don’t have any surprises that can cost you time and money.

Tune-Up: Not only can a tune-up help you encounter issues before they become bigger, and costlier, but you can also ensure that your car runs more efficiently. By taking your car in for service, you can sometimes enjoy better gas mileage, and with gas prices at near-record highs, a tune-up may pay for itself.

Tires: Your tires are the only part of your car that touches the ground. An unexpected flat tire or blowout could lead to a dangerous accident or at least a costly tow, not to mention how much time it will waste. Inspect your tires, and make sure that they are at the recommended PSI. You will get better gas mileage too. Also check your tread levels, and get new tires if needed. Finally, make sure that your spare is in good shape too, and fill it up with air, if needed.

Check your battery: Batteries last a long time. With that being said, if you are out in the middle of nowhere and your car won’t start, you may be in for trouble. Remember, some places don’t have cell reception. At the same time, remember to always carry jumper cables. This can help you in a pinch, and it may even come in handy for other travelers who aren’t as prepared.

Check the AC: While most of us can live without AC, if you are in certain hot summer destinations, you probably would miss it. If it’s not blowing cold air like it used to or if it’s been a long time since you had it checked, it may be time to bring your car in just to make sure.

Fluids: If you take your car in for a tune-up, fluid levels will be checked. But, if you work on your own car or don’t take it in, it’s best to check fluid level and add accordingly. Check your transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, engine oil and even your windshield wiper fluid. Not only can you avoid costly repairs while on the road, but by topping up your fluids, you won’t have to run around wasting valuable time if you need to top up while on the road.

If you are prepared for your ultimate road trip, you will have less stress, avoid costly repairs while on the road and protect your family. If you want to be prepared for your next road trip, Tim’s Truck can help you as they have a service & parts department, and can help you ensure that your road trip goes off without a hitch.