Summer is the perfect season for road trips, but before hitting the highway, it’s crucial to make sure your vehicle is ready to handle long miles, high temperatures, and unpredictable conditions. In this month’s blog post, we review essential summer vehicle prep tips. A little preparation can help you avoid breakdowns, improve safety, and ensure a stress-free journey.
Pre-Trip Maintenance Essentials
Before packing your bags, give your vehicle a thorough check-up. Here are the key maintenance tasks to address:
Check Fluids & Cooling System
- Engine oil: Make sure it’s clean and at the right level—hot weather can thin out older oil, reducing protection.
- Coolant: Overheating is a major cause of summer breakdowns. Check coolant levels and inspect for leaks.
- Transmission & brake fluid: Essential for smooth shifting and safe braking—top off or replace if needed.
Inspect Tires
- Check tire pressure—hot pavement increases pressure, so adjust accordingly.
- Look for uneven wear, cracks, or low tread depth that could cause traction issues.
- Rotate or replace tires, if necessary, especially if you are towing a trailer or driving on rough terrain.
Battery Check-Up
- Heat can speed up battery wear. Check for corrosion on terminals and confirm the battery holds a charge.
- If your battery is over three years old, get it tested before a long trip.
Lights, Wipers & Visibility
- Test headlights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure visibility on the road.
- Replace windshield wipers if they are streaking—summer storms can reduce visibility fast.
Safety Considerations for the Road
Once your vehicle is road-trip ready, keep safety top of mind throughout your journey.
- Pack an Emergency Kit and include:
- Jumper cables
- Tire repair kit & spare
- Flashlights & batteries
- Extra coolant, oil, and windshield washer fluid
- First-aid supplies
- Stay Cool in the Heat
- Ensure your air conditioning works properly—a failing AC can make long drives miserable.
- Pack extra water to prevent dehydration during delays or breakdowns.
- Plan Fuel Stops & Rest Breaks
- Running low on fuel can strain the engine—plan refueling stops ahead of time.
- Take breaks every few hours to avoid fatigue and maintain focus on the road.
A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth, safe, and enjoyable summer road trip. By checking your fluids, tires, and battery while keeping emergency supplies on hand, you will have peace of mind wherever the road takes you. If you would like to have your vehicle checked prior to your next summer road trip, contact the service professionals at Geller’s Automotive to schedule your appointment.
