Pre-Trip Maintenance

Your car needs special attention before you go on a long trip. Starting a vacation with a car that has mechanical problems is a sure fire way to ruin your trip. Take some simple precautions before you hit the road and make your vacation more pleasant.

• Cooling System
• The cooling system needs to be flushed and re-filled at least once a year in order to keep the cooling system in good working order. If your coolant hasn't been changed during the past year, get the radiator flushed and filled before you start your trip.
• Your air conditioning is very important in the hot summer. Check the air conditioning. Is it cold? If not, have a technician inspect it to find out why not.
• Drive Belts / Hoses
• Drive Belts and hoses can deteriorate with age and heat. Check all the belts and hoses in your car for signs of cracks or leaking. Check the tension of belts. Any cracked or damaged belts or hoses should be replaced before heading out on the road for a long trip.
• Battery
• A dead battery is one of the more common reasons for breakdowns. Make sure yours is in good condition before you take that trip.
• Engine
• If your car is due for a tune-up soon, go ahead and get one before leaving. A tune-up will make the ride easier on you and your car. Check your owner's manual for the proper intervals for tuning up your engine.
• Fluids
• Make sure to check the levels of transmission fluid, engine oil, brake fluid, washer fluid, power steering fluid and, of course, gas. If you are due for an oil change, get one before you start out.
• Keeping the gas tank at least half full will not only help control condensation inside the tank, keeping fuel free of water, but may save you from running out of gas in an unexpected traffic jam!
• Suspension
• If you are going to be towing something, or carrying a heavy load, you should definitely get your shocks and springs checked to make sure they can handle the load.
• Tires
• Make sure all tires are properly inflated to the specifications in your owner's manual and have plenty of tread with no uneven wear.
• Don't forget your spare tire! In an emergency, you don't want to find out that your spare is flat. Take it out of the trunk and give it a "once over" to make sure everything is in working order.
• Brakes
• Have your brakes inspected prior to your trip to ensure that everything is in good working order.
• Exhaust System
• Check for any loose hangers or holes in the muffler and pipes.
• Windshield Wipers
• Think about your windshield wipers! Don't wait until you need them to find out your wipers need to be replaced. Check them before your trip.
• Refill your windshield washer fluid.
• Lights
• Test the brake lights, turn signals and headlights to make sure they work properly and give enough illumination.