Summer is just about here and maybe you are planning a summer road trip versus a plane or train ride. Part of your planning should include making sure that you have had all of the recommended vehicle maintenance issues taken care of before heading down the road. Even small problems, such as bad windshield wipers or a flat tire can turn your trip into a disaster.
Here are a few vehicle maintenance tips for an enjoyable road trip:
- Read your owner's manual.This little book (keep it in your glovebox) will tell you everything you need to know about your vehicle--from using overdrive when you tow a trailer to how to change a tire.
- Signs of potential problems.Pay attention to signs of potential problems, such as vibrations or irregular noise, or if your car starts to “wander” to the side of the road. Inform your mechanic of your observations so that they can be checked out.
- Pre-Trip Inspection. This should be performed by an automotive professional, and should include:
- Oil—Have the oil changed if it is due while you are gone.
- Tires—Have tires rotated, alignment and balance checked, air pressure, and depth of tread (including the spare and jack).
- Car battery—make sure it is holding a 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 working 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, 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 why car maintenance is important before a road trip? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Cannon Auto Repair today for more information about recommended vehicle maintenance and to schedule an appointment for a pre-trip inspection. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Cannon Falls, MN and the surrounding areas.
Summer is just about here and maybe you are planning a summer road trip versus a plane or train ride. Part of your planning should include making sure that you have had all of the recommended vehicle maintenance issues taken care of before heading down the road. Even small problems, such as bad windshield wipers or a flat tire can turn your trip into a disaster.
Here are a few vehicle maintenance tips for an enjoyable road trip:
- Read your owner's manual.This little book (keep it in your glovebox) will tell you everything you need to know about your vehicle--from using overdrive when you tow a trailer to how to change a tire.
- Signs of potential problems.Pay attention to signs of potential problems, such as vibrations or irregular noise, or if your car starts to “wander” to the side of the road. Inform your mechanic of your observations so that they can be checked out.
- Pre-Trip Inspection. This should be performed by an automotive professional, and should include:
- Oil—Have the oil changed if it is due while you are gone.
- Tires—Have tires rotated, alignment and balance checked, air pressure, and depth of tread (including the spare and jack).
- Car battery—make sure it is holding a 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 working 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, 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 why car maintenance is important before a road trip? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Cannon Auto Repair today for more information about recommended vehicle maintenance and to schedule an appointment for a pre-trip inspection. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Cannon Falls, MN and the surrounding areas.
