Since the onslaught of the COVID 19 pandemic, more people than ever are taking time out of their schedule to enjoy some sightseeing with a long-distance road trip. While the summer season provides ideal weather for a four-wheel adventure, it unfortunately also heightens the possibility of car trouble as extreme heat can take a toll on your car’s most important systems. So, if your summer calendar is filled with travel and trips to the beach to escape the Arizona heat, here is a summer safety checklist:
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Test the AC – Before taking a trip, it is essential to check if your car’s air conditioning system is working properly. Neglecting this step could lead to a long ride in the sweltering heat.
• Check Tire Air Pressure – Take time to inspect all four tires and, if you have one, the spare tire as well to ensure a smooth ride.
• Top off Engine Fluids – It is best practice to ensure that your brake fluid, engine oil, windshield washer fluid, transmission, and power steering fluids are at the correct levels for safe vehicle operation before taking off on long rides.
• Get Oil Changed – Consider changing your oil before embarking on your journey. It’s more convenient to get that done at home rather than having to risk finding a place when you’re in an unfamiliar town.
• Test brakes – If your car’s brakes are making squealing noises or any other odd sounds have your car professionally checked out before hitting the road.
• Replace Windshield Wipers – Do not neglect your windshield wipers. Along with filling the fluid, test to make sure the nozzles spray adequately and replace if necessary.
• Replace Air Filter – If your engine air filter is dirty or clogged with debris, change it before leaving so that it does not affect your car’s acceleration performance.
• Rotate Tires – Prevent uneven tread wear, boost fuel efficiency, and prolong the life of your tires by getting them rotated before a long journey. Doing so will help you avoid the risk of tire failure or a blowout.
• Test Car Battery – The last thing you need is for your car battery to die in the middle of nowhere. Inspect your car battery to ensure that the cable connections are clean and tight, and that the hold-down hardware is secure.
• Pack a First Aid Kit – Be sure to pack a car first-aid kit with pain relievers, bandages, disinfectants, and any necessary prescribed medications. It’s easy to collect these things at home, but it may be much harder on the road.
• Top Off Coolant Levels – Checking the coolant levels is a must before any long periods of driving in order to avoid your engine overheating and your vehicle breaking down.
A well-maintained car is an important key to a smooth, enjoyable road trip. If you take the time to go through these steps and properly prepare your vehicle before you head out, you will be able to relax and enjoy the ride.
Author: Whitney Yates-Woods is Dealer Principal of family-owned Yates Buick GMC in Goodyear. Yates Buick GMC has been serving the Phoenix metropolitan area for more than 37 years. To see our current inventory or to schedule a maintenance appointment, visit https://www.yatesbuickgmc.com.
