It's time to hit the road for summer, so you can jump in your car and go, right? Not quite.
Even if your car is relatively new, you still want to make sure you are up to date on oil changes, light bulb replacement, tire pressure, and more. The summer-ready road trip check might seem like an optional thing, but if something happens, you'll wish you had done an overview of car safety. Get in the habit of reviewing simple maintenance needs before heading out.
Road Trip Prep
Prepping for any road trip takes a little time but can save you money and a major headache later by preventing problems from arising after you leave. Also, even if you aren't going on one big road trip, summer travel usually includes driving more often and with more cars on the road, so getting ahead of the summer travel season can be a great idea for safety and savings.
The Attention Your Vehicle Needs
It's important to be up to date on oil changes, so if you're due or past due, schedule one ASAP. Your mechanic should perform a check on your vehicle and let you know if anything needs to be addressed.
If it's not time for an oil change, make sure that you review the following inspection points:
- Tires: air pressure, rotation, and summer tires.
- Fluids: windshield wiper fluid, brake fluid, and radiator fluid.
- Engine: how things are running and checking on any concerns.
Then, take a look at these a little more carefully, or with an auto repair specialist:
- Brakes
- Battery
- Belts
If any of these are a little out of your area of expertise, you can always ask the team when you stop at Naylor's Auto Repair to do a once over and help you get ready for safe driving.
Be Prepared for Anything
Once your vehicle is in roadtripping shape, remember that there's more you'll want to prepare inside the cab. Here are some tips for packing and prepping for both comfort and safety on your road trip:
- Get an emergency kit. These typically include things like jumper cables, flashlights, batteries, tools, emergency flares or triangles, and more.
- If your emergency kit doesn't have a first aid kit, make sure to get one of those, too.
- Additional emergency items to pack include blankets, bottled water, and anything else you might need in case of a breakdown.
- Keep a quart of oil and wiper fluid in the trunk.
- Carry a map in case you cannot access your phone for directions.
- Know your route ahead of time, and have a backup plan in case roads are closed.
- Join a roadside assistance service like AAA.
- Plan stops ahead of time so you know when you need to stop for gas, particularly if there are long stretches without services.
- Clean your car before you go, and pack napkins, wet wipes, and any other cleaning supplies you might need—future you will thank you for it!
Stop by the Auto Shop First!
One quick way to get on the road is to swing by Naylor's Auto Repair for a quick check-up. The team is happy to help look at your car, let you know if there are issues, and look for any future maintenance needs. It couldn't be easier to get ready for a road trip than working with Naylor's Auto Repair. Call or come by today!