It’s almost the end of summer. The kids will soon go back to school, and life can finally settle back into your typical but still hectic routine. But there are still a few weeks left, and it might be the perfect time for that family road trip you’ve been talking about. Before you load the car, make sure it’s ready for the road ahead by checking these things.
Brakes
Some people haven’t considered that the brakes are their car’s single most important safety feature. They are your family’s first defense against that drowsy driver or the dazed deer. If you’ve noticed any squealing, squeaking, or grinding when you brake, have your car’s braking system inspected before taking any trips.
Tires
The quality of your tires is also vitally important to your family’s safety. Worn-down treads can increase your car’s stopping distance by up to 87 feet. Before your trip, check your treads and make sure the air pressure is balanced in all four tires. Balanced tires will also help improve your fuel efficiency, helping your entire trip cost less.
Belts & Hoses
Most modern cars have replaced multiple belts under the hood with one serpentine belt. Take a look at that belt and any hoses before your trip. Do you see any cracks, fraying, or leaks? If so, make an appointment to have those issues repaired.
Filters & Fluids
Your car has four filters to keep impurities out of different systems: oil, fuel, air, and cabin. Check each of these filters to ensure that your car can run smoothly and that your family will have clean, comfortable air on your trip. There are also six fluids you should check the levels of: oil, transmission, power steering, brake, coolant, and windshield washer. While windshield washer fluid may not be at the top of your priority list, remember how incredibly annoying it can be to drive miles on end with a butterfly splattered across your field of vision.
If you need help preparing your car for a road trip, make an appointment with the team at Allman’s Automotive. We’ll check your vehicle from top to bottom and make any repairs necessary so your family can travel safely.