Summer is just about here and if you’re like a lot of people, you are planning a summer road trip. An important part of planning your trip is making sure that all of the recommended vehicle maintenance issues have been taken care of before you head down the road. Even the smallest problem, such as having to replace a burned out light bulb or changing a flat tire can turn a fun road trip into a frustrating experience.
So what car maintenance is really necessary before your road trip? Consider these four tips:
- Owner's manual. Read your owner’s manual (it should be in your glovebox). This little book will tell you everything you need to know about the recommended vehicle maintenance with the appropriate mileage interval that is needed on your vehicle.
- Potential problems? Pay attention to signs of potential problems, such as vibrations or irregular noise, or if your car starts to “drift” to the side of the road. Inform your mechanic of your observations so that they can be checked out and fixed to prevent problems while on your trip.
- Pre-Trip Inspection. A pre-trip inspection, performed by an automotive professional, should include:
- Oil—Have the oil changed if it is due while you are gone.
- Tires—Have tires rotated, alignment and balance checked, check air pressure and tread wear (including the spare). Make sure the jack is in the trunk!
- Car battery—It should be holding a strong charge.
- All fluids—Check and top-off as needed, antifreeze/coolant, brake, power steering, transmission, windshield cleaner.
- Air filter—Replace if it has reached the recommended mileage interval.
- Horn—make sure it is loud and clear for use during an emergency situation.
- Windshield wipers—they should be replaced about every six months.
- Lights—replace any burned out or broken bulbs.
- A/C—Make sure it is keeping you cool.
- Items to Pack. First aid kit, roadside flares, extra quart of oil, extra fuses, flashlight, multipurpose tool, tire inflator and jack, a few rags, pocket knife, phone charger, bottled water, a blanket, and some snacks.
Need to know more about what car maintenance is really necessary before a road trip? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair for more information about vehicle maintenance and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
Summer is just about here and if you’re like a lot of people, you are planning a summer road trip. An important part of planning your trip is making sure that all of the recommended vehicle maintenance issues have been taken care of before you head down the road. Even the smallest problem, such as having to replace a burned out light bulb or changing a flat tire can turn a fun road trip into a frustrating experience.
So what car maintenance is really necessary before your road trip? Consider these four tips:
- Owner's manual. Read your owner’s manual (it should be in your glovebox). This little book will tell you everything you need to know about the recommended vehicle maintenance with the appropriate mileage interval that is needed on your vehicle.
- Potential problems? Pay attention to signs of potential problems, such as vibrations or irregular noise, or if your car starts to “drift” to the side of the road. Inform your mechanic of your observations so that they can be checked out and fixed to prevent problems while on your trip.
- Pre-Trip Inspection. A pre-trip inspection, performed by an automotive professional, should include:
- Oil—Have the oil changed if it is due while you are gone.
- Tires—Have tires rotated, alignment and balance checked, check air pressure and tread wear (including the spare). Make sure the jack is in the trunk!
- Car battery—It should be holding a strong charge.
- All fluids—Check and top-off as needed, antifreeze/coolant, brake, power steering, transmission, windshield cleaner.
- Air filter—Replace if it has reached the recommended mileage interval.
- Horn—make sure it is loud and clear for use during an emergency situation.
- Windshield wipers—they should be replaced about every six months.
- Lights—replace any burned out or broken bulbs.
- A/C—Make sure it is keeping you cool.
- Items to Pack. First aid kit, roadside flares, extra quart of oil, extra fuses, flashlight, multipurpose tool, tire inflator and jack, a few rags, pocket knife, phone charger, bottled water, a blanket, and some snacks.
Need to know more about what car maintenance is really necessary before a road trip? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair for more information about vehicle maintenance and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
