Is Your Car Ready For Your Summer Road Trip?

Before you hit the road on your first road trip this summer, make sure your vehicle is ready with these simple steps outlined by Frommer’s.

Ensuring Tire Safety and Performance

Before embarking on a summer road trip, one of the most crucial tasks is to check your car’s tires. Your tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, so it’s important to ensure they are in optimal condition. Here are a few steps to follow:

1. Tire Pressure: Check the tire pressure using a reliable pressure gauge. Refer to your car’s manual for the recommended pressure and adjust accordingly. Underinflated tires can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased chances of a blowout, while overinflated tires can affect handling and ride comfort.
2. Tread Depth: Inspect the tire treads for adequate depth. Insert a penny into the grooves with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace your tires. Bald tires can compromise traction, especially on wet roads, increasing the risk of skidding or hydroplaning.
3. Tire Damage: Look for any signs of wear, such as cracks, bulges, or punctures. Damaged tires may fail unexpectedly during your journey, so it’s essential to replace them beforehand to ensure your safety.

Checking Under the Hood: Belts, Hoses, and Fluids

To keep your car running smoothly during a summer road trip, it’s crucial to inspect the engine compartment. Pay attention to belts, hoses, and fluid levels to avoid breakdowns and overheating. Follow these steps:

1. Belts: Examine the condition of the serpentine belt, which powers various engine accessories. Look for signs of fraying, cracking, or excessive wear. If you notice any issues, have the belt replaced before your trip to prevent engine malfunctions?
2. Hoses: Inspect the radiator and coolant hoses for leaks, bulges, or cracks. Damaged hoses can lead to coolant leaks, causing the engine to overheat. Replace any faulty hoses to prevent engine damage and potential breakdowns.
3. Fluid Levels: Check the levels of essential fluids, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Low levels or dirty fluids can impair vehicle performance or visibility. Top up or replace fluids as needed to ensure optimal functioning.

You might also like: Summer Car Emergency Kit Essentials

Ensuring Safety & Preparedness

While preparing your car for a summer road trip, it’s important to prioritize safety and be prepared for unexpected situations. Here are a few steps to consider:

1. Lights: Inspect all exterior lights, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. Replace any burnt-out bulbs to ensure maximum visibility and compliance with traffic laws.
2. Brakes: Have a professional mechanic inspect your car’s braking system, including brake pads, rotors, and fluid. Properly functioning brakes are crucial for safe stopping and maneuvering during your journey.
3. Emergency Kit: Create an emergency kit that includes essential items such as a spare tire, jack, jumper cables, flashlight, first aid kit, basic tools, and a roadside assistance contact number. Also, consider adding extra water, snacks, and blankets in case of unexpected delays.

Disclaimer: The stock image is being used for illustrative purposes only, and it is not a direct representation of the business, recipe, or activity listed. Any person depicted in the stock image is a model.