Use This Pre-Trip Car Checklist for Your Final Summer Travels
Time flies when you’re having fun. But it’s not too late to enjoy a road trip before the sun sets on summer.
Before you take off on a final fling, don’t forget to make sure your vehicle’s up for the drive. Here’s a pre-trip car checklist to get you started.
Filters
There are several filters that keep your vehicle running smoothly:
- Air filter.
- Cabin air filter.
- Oil filter.
- Fuel filter.
Each of these plays a role in making sure your car is maintaining good fuel economy and getting you where you need to be without a hitch.
Fluids
When it comes to fluids, it’s pretty simple: They’re crucial for your vehicle.
To head off this scenario, it’s necessary to have your V-belts and serpentine belts checked periodically. Your mechanic will be looking at the tension, as well as for signs of wear, like cracks, fraying, or glazing.
When your mechanic gives your car the once-over, here’s what he will be looking at:
- Oil.
- Radiator fluid.
- Transmission fluid.
- Radiator fluid.
- Power steering fluid.
- Brake fluid.
- Windshield washer fluid.
- Coolant.
It’s important that your car has just the right amount of each type. Too much or too little and you could eventually be looking at costly repairs.
Hoses and belts
A faulty hose or belt could quickly put a damper on your summer fun.
Have these crucial components looked at before you take off:
- Timing belt.
- Serpentine belt.
- Coolant and heater hoses.
Brakes
As always, defer to the advice your owner’s manual provides because it has the most accurate information for your particular make and model.
Your vehicle’s brakes are one of the most important safety features. If they fail, you could be looking at a dangerous situation.
Here are the components of your brake system that your mechanic will focus on:
- Brake pads.
- Rotors.
- Caliper and support.
Battery
Don’t forget about this important part of your vehicle. Nobody wants to have their road trip interrupted by a dead battery.
Your mechanic can test it before you head out. He’ll also look at:
- All the connections to make sure they’re secure.
- The casing, for cracks.
- Corrosion on the terminals (or anywhere else).
- The cables to see if they’re frayed.
Tires
In addition to the brakes, your vehicle’s tires are another major safety component.
Before you leave for your trip, here’s what you should be looking for when inspecting your tires:
- Uneven tread wear.
- Shallow tread.
- Pebbles, stones, or other foreign objects stuck in the tread.
- Damaged areas, such as bulges, cuts, punctures, or holes.
- Leaks.
Enjoy a problem-free road trip
Before you hit the road for one last epic summer trip with the family, let your trusted mechanic give your vehicle the once-over. You can count on the expert auto technicians at Conrad’s to make sure your car’s fluid levels
are adequate, your filters are clean, belts and hoses are in good shape, and your tires have plenty of tread. They will also take a look at your battery and brakes so you can travel confidently, knowing you’ll only have fun to look forward to.
