Summer road trips are filled with memories. Driving games and roadside attractions can help keep even the longest road trips entertaining. However, sometimes car trouble gets in the way. Before you hit the open road this summer, there are a few steps to take that can help prevent car problems from leaving you stranded or hitting pause on a family vacation. Check on essential components and systems in your vehicle at home and head to a mechanic for maintenance services that allow your mechanic to inspect for signs of the most common problems.
Get Your Car Ready at Home
Much of what should be checked ahead of a road trip can be done at home. The lights, fluids, and tires are all simple to inspect yourself without having to schedule time at an auto shop. However, if you notice problems with any of these components, it may mean it’s time to have a mechanic help before you head out for a trip.
Check All of Your Car’s Lights
While interior lights help you read written directions or a book in the car, exterior lights are essential for visibility and safety on the road. Check to make sure your headlights and brights are working well, then enlist a friend to help check the brake lights. If any don’t turn on, try replacing the bulbs. If that doesn’t solve the problem, there may be an issue with connected electrical components or wires.
Check Tire Pressure & Tread Wear
Take a closer look at your tire tread. As they wear, tires are less able to maintain traction with the road, impacting your car’s handling and performance. You’ll notice it takes longer to come to a full stop, turning corners is trickier, and bumps in the road can more easily lead to skidding. While you’re there, look for uneven tread wear that could point to misaligned wheels or another suspension problem.
Check Fluids: Engine Oil, Transmission Fluid, & Coolant
Depending on what you’re able to check with your vehicle, look at the level and condition of key fluids like engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant. Over time, these all pick up contaminants, leading to a gradual thickening and lowered circulation. If the level is too low, it can also indicate a leak in the system that requires inspection by a professional mechanic.
Check Windshield Wipers & Fluid
Have you noticed streaks on your windshield lately? That’s a key indication that your windshield wipers are old and need to be replaced. Though most cars will warn you if your wiper fluid is low, it’s also a good idea to check the level and top it off before going on a long road trip. Both of these are easy to replace or top off at home — and they’re important components for maintaining visibility on the road.
Visit a Mechanic for Maintenance Services
Most maintenance services are best handled by a professional mechanic. Scheduling simple services like a battery check or oil change allows your mechanic to inspect essential systems for signs of an issue. Rather than being caught off guard on the road, make time for one or more of these regular maintenance services.
Battery Check & Replacement
Imagine stopping for gas or food and finding out your car won’t start again. One of the most common car problems is a dead battery — and it’s also simple to prevent. If it’s been a few years since you last had a new battery installed, it may be time to have yours replaced. A mechanic can test how much charge your battery can store so that a new one can be installed before you’re left stranded.
Oil Change, Engine Tune-Up & Inspection
Regular oil changes and engine tune-ups are important to optimize efficiency and stop potential issues in their tracks. If it’s been more than a few months since your last oil change or more than a year since your last tune-up, consider scheduling one or both of these before a long road trip. Each of these car maintenance services allows your mechanic to inspect the system for other signs of trouble, too.
Brake Service
Does your brake pedal feel spongy? Or maybe it takes longer than it should to come to a full stop? These signs indicate you may be due for a brake service, whether it’s new pads and rotors or fluid replacement. A mechanic should inspect your brake system and handle any services necessary to keep you safe on the road and ensure you can always easily slow to avoid collision.
Tire Rotation & Alignment
Noticing uneven tire tread? Or maybe your car drifts to one side? In general, the front tires will wear down the most, so scheduling tire rotations at least once a year will help all four tires wear evenly. Not only does this extend the life of your tires, but you’ll also experience better handling and overall performance. Wheel alignment services will ensure each tire is angled in the same direction, helping each individual tire wear evenly.
Prepare for Your Next Road Trip. Visit Your Local AAMCO.
Hit the open road with confidence this summer. No matter which services your car needs, the expert mechanics at your local AAMCO are here to help. You’ll enjoy better performance and improved efficiency no matter where you’re headed. Schedule your appointment with us today!
