Road Trip Car Checks

As the weather warms up, it’s important to keep your car in mind as you head out on road trips. Below are six often neglected areas of your car that can save you time, money, and your sanity on your next road trip.

• Foggy Headlights–If your plastic headlight lenses are foggy and opaque, you’re not seeing all that you can, especially at night. Try cleaning the plastic to remove excess dirt and grime, but the best fix is replacing the lenses all together.
• Fluctuating Air Flow–If you notice that the air conditioning in your car seems to cut in and out, or never gets as strong as you’d like, there are probably some worn out belts under the hood. While you’re looking, ensure that the condenser blades are free of obstructions or debris.
• Engine Overheating–A constantly hot engine means your car is more likely to overheat and die. If your temperature gauge is always on hot, take a minute to check the radiator blades, replace the electric fan thermostat, refill your coolant, and take a look at the fan belt. If the belt looks worn or loose, it could be the source of the heating issue.
• Tire Issues–From low pressure to worn treads, old tires can put a serious damper on your trip. If your tires seem to be failing, it could be time to get a new set. See Brown’s Auto today to get great deals on Toyo tires.
• Dirty Filters–Air and cabin filters should be replaced frequently, or you run the risk of having ineffective filters which can cause engine trouble or reduce the air quality inside your vehicle. Replace all your filters before you head out!
• Low or Dirty Oil–Check your oil carefully and see if it’s low or dirty. Ensure that it’s the right weight for your vehicle, as well. A $40 oil change can save you thousands in the long run–a complete oil change includes a new filter, which is just an important.