The first day of school is right around the corner, but there’s still just enough time to squeeze in that family road trip you’ve been wanting to take! In your rush to pack and make preparations, don’t forget to ensure that your vehicle is ready for the road ahead. Here are a few things to check before you load up the car.
Brakes
When a deer steps out in front of you or when another car swerves into your lane, your vehicle’s braking system is your family’s first defense. More than airbags and seatbelts, brakes are your most important safety feature. If you’ve noticed odd noises when braking, be sure to have your car inspected. Your loved ones are too valuable to risk.
Tires
Another critical safety factor is your vehicle’s tires. Besides balancing the tire pressure, check the tread wear on each tire. One quick way to check is with a penny. Place the top of the penny in the tread. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to get those tires replaced. Besides risking a flat or a blowout, worn-out treads can increase your car’s stopping distance by up to 85 feet.
Fluids & Filters
Typical cars have four filters and six fluids that should all be checked before a trip. The oil, fuel, and air filters keep contaminants out of your vehicle’s engine, and the cabin filter ensures that your family’s air is clean and safe. Check the levels of your oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
Belts & Hoses
Check under the hood to make sure all belts and hoses are free of fraying, cracks, or leaks. Nowadays, most cars have one serpentine belt replacing the multiple belts in older models. But if that one belt breaks, your car will completely stop running.
It can seem like a lot to check, so if you need any help prepping your car for a road trip, schedule an appointment with Cool Green Auto. We’ll thoroughly inspect your vehicle to make sure your family is safe and free to focus on making memories this summer.