With summer travel season getting into full swing, it's time to think about making sure your vehicle is prepared for road trips. Here are a few tips to help prepare you and your vehicle for the open roads this summer.
- Get an oil change and check fluids
Opinions vary on when and how often to change your engine oil. Some car owners subscribe to the somewhat dated "every three months or 3,000 miles" rule of thumb, while others adhere to oil-change intervals ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 miles.
Rules of thumb aside, we suggest at least changing your oil (full synthetic or synthetic blend is ideal) and oil filter before heading out on your summer road trip. Fresh oil will keep your engine parts lubricated and moving smoothly, while the new filter will remove any impurities and metal fragments that might otherwise find their way into the motor.
Being stranded on the side of the road with an overheated engine might look like an adventure in the movies, but it's no picnic in the middle of a heat wave. Check your coolant level frequently throughout the summer. If the amount of fluid consistently decreases, you may have a leak in your radiator or other issues that need to be addressed.
Seasonal weather changes can also cause other essential fluid levels to fluctuate. Make a habit of periodically checking levels for your power steering, brakes and transmission. These systems and components rely on specific fluids to function properly, so levels should always be maintained in the designated working range.
- Monitor your tire pressure
As we mentioned earlier, the air pressure in your tires increases when the temperature rises. That's why it's a good idea to routinely check tire pressure throughout the hotter months.
External temperatures and the heat transferred from the road to your tires can generate swings of several pounds in air pressure. It may seem inconsequential, but that extra pressure can impact how your vehicle rides and the longevity of your tires.
- Get your vehicle aligned
Alignment can be thrown off over time with general wear and tear or it can be caused by running into potholes, hitting curbs, or riding on rough surfaces for extended periods.
If you're planning a long summer trip, you should inspect your vehicle's alignment. Proper alignment improves the handling and overall ride of your automobile, extends tire life and reduces damage to your suspension and other critical components. It can even enhance fuel efficiency.
- Inspect your brakes
It's fun to let the good times roll, but eventually, they must come to a nice, smooth stop. Your brakes ensure that they do just that — when and where you intend — making the pedal located to the left of the accelerator the most important safety feature on your vehicle. If your brake pedal is tough to push or you can hear a screech when you brake, there could be cause for concern.
Summer's added impact of stop-and-go traffic, long road trips and increased heat takes an even greater toll on your braking system.
Even if your brakes aren't making noises or requiring you to press harder to come to a stop, you should have them checked annually to ensure they're in good condition, especially if you think you might trade in or sell your vehicle before the odometer maxes out.
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