Are you planning a road trip this summer? Before you roll your windows down and hit the road, you’ll want to make sure your car is in top condition.
Whether you’re headed to the beach, a national park, or just enjoying the open road with friends, it’s important to do some key maintenance. From checking your air conditioning to inspecting your tires, take steps to help keep your car running smoothly all season long.
What do you need to check before you buckle up? Here’s a list to get you started.
1. Oil and Fluids
Regular oil changes and fluid checks are crucial to keeping your car running smoothly and avoiding breakdowns on the road.
When you drive long distances during the summer months, your engine oil breaks down faster and becomes less effective at lubricating the engine’s moving parts. Changing your engine oil before a long trip ensures that your engine is properly lubricated and protected against wear and tear.
It’s also important to check all other fluids, such as transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. Low or dirty fluids can cause serious damage to your engine and other parts of your car. For example, low coolant levels can lead to overheating, and low brake fluid levels can lead to brake failure, which can be extremely dangerous.
2. Tires, Wipers, and AC
The next step is to ensure that your tires, wipers, and air conditioning are in great shape. You definitely don’t want to deal with a flat tire, not being able to see in the rain, or overheating when you’re supposed to be on a relaxing vacation!
Keeping your tires properly inflated, getting new windshield wipers, and ensuring your AC runs well and is properly cold will help you enjoy any road trips and stay safe this summer.
Paperwork Maintenance: Know Your Insurance Policy
One final step before you leave for a trip is to fully understand your car insurance. When you’re on the road, you want to make sure you’re protected not only in case of an accident, but also in case you break down and need towing or other help on the roadside.
If you’re not sure about your insurance, or it’s been a while since you looked at your policy, it can help to review your plan with a professional. For example, Freeway Car Insurance is widely recognized for its ability to help drivers understand their policy options and reduce costs by comparing rates, guaranteeing the best possible deal on coverage.
Once your insurance is in order, make sure you have your proof of insurance card in the car before you leave on your trip. You’ll have peace of mind about anything unexpected, which can make your adventure even more fun!
Enjoy Your Adventures This Summer
Whether you’re hitting the open road or just driving around town, having a car that’s been properly maintained will give you peace of mind and keep you safe.
Make sure you get essential maintenance done this summer…enjoy your adventures!