Preparing Your Car for a Road Trip Part II

Catch up with Part I here. 

When it comes to making sure your vehicle is road-ready before a road trip, it just takes a little time and some careful examination. Ensuring that your vehicle is in peak condition before driving off in to the sunset can save you a headache or two down the road and keep you and your loved ones safe.

Check Your Brakes

From low or leaking brake fluid to worn brake pads, damaged brakes can lead to an accident. Take the time to visually inspect your brakes, or have a mechanic give them a once over.

Test Your Lights and Other Electrical

Your horn, wipers, and lights are all easy to check and fix if there is an issue. Ask a friend to stand behind your vehicle as you test the brake lights and turning signals, and then in front of your vehicle while you try the headlights. Ensure that your climate control is working properly–both air conditioning and the heater. A trip is also the ideal time to change out the cabin air filter, which protects against pollens and other air impurities.

Tires

heck the tread of your tires–it it’s worn unevenly or too low, it may be time to have them replaced. Shopping for tires can bee a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Trust your mechanic to suggest the perfect tires for your vehicle, and always focus on quality rather than price shopping–your tires are not an area that you want to scrimp on. Choosing a set of tires that can handle wet, dry, and snowy conditions ensures that you’ll be safe, no matter the weather you run in to.

Take Your Car for a “Test Drive”

Some components of your vehicle can only be examined when the car is lifted in a mechanic’s shop, but you can still check for warning signs by taking a drive and carefully noting any problems.

• A vibrating steering wheel or pulsing brake pedal can hint at warped rotors–have your brakes checked immediately.
• A clicking or popping noise from under your feet while turning could be a damaged CV joint.
• Rattling from under the vehicle when driving over bumpy roads isn’t normal; your suspension could be damaged and unsafe.
• If your car seems to veer off to one side when driving straight, or wander over thee road, the wheel alignment could be at fault, causing handling problems and tire wear.

Before you head out this summer, give your car a good once-over and don’t hesitate to make an appointment at Brown’s Auto for a quick vehicle maintenance or new set of tires. Call us today to schedule your appointment.