Summer is the season of road trips! While they are a great way to see the country and explore, road trips can mean unexpected surprises, varying road conditions, and lots of miles on your car in a short amount of time. Whether you are planning a quick weekend trip or a cross-country drive, it is important to make sure your car is up to the task BEFORE you hit the road.
Here are a few things you should check before you embark:
Start with a test drive. Feel for any vibrations or tracking issues as you drive – this could be a sign that you need your wheels balanced, tires rotated, or an alignment. Check that your tires have enough tread. Low tread makes tires more prone to flats – an untimely flat could mean driving many miles on a spare until you get to the next town.
Make sure to check your fluids before the journey and replace as needed. Check for any that are low – low levels are usually a sign of a leak. Ignoring a leak could result in contaminants getting into the system, setting you up for costly repairs down the road. If your car is due for an oil change or will be while you are on the road, have it done before you leave. You may also need to replace dirty air filters – though this might seem less important, clean filters will mean better fuel economy, which makes an even bigger difference on long trips!
Be sure that your transmission have been inspected in the last 6 months. A mid-drive issue with this vital component could mean being stranded by the side of the road and searching for a transmission repair shop in an unfamiliar area. To avoid this headache, make sure the transmission is checked before the trip. A vehicle inspection can insure there are no problems or concerns.
Another easy thing to check before you leave is the wiper blades and washer fluid. Especially when your trip involves many hours on the interstate, you’ll want to be able to wash away the dead bugs your windshield collects on the road.
Review your maintenance schedule before you leave to make sure your car is up-to-date with its preventative care, like a transmission fluid flush. If you will be due for a routine service while you are away, have it done before you leave.
Road trips are an exciting part of summer – make sure your car is equipped to handle all the conditions the road may throw at it.
Stop by our transmission shop or call 620.654.3445 to schedule your pre-trip transmission inspection!