For many people, summertime means vacations and road trips. While you can't prevent every mechanical breakdown, performing a few maintenance checks before you hit the road can keep you from spending valuable vacation time in the repair shop.
Here are some tips to prepare your car for summer travel.
Air Conditioning
As the temperatures rise, your air conditioning has to work harder to keep your car cool. Traveling without air conditioning is not only uncomfortable, but it is also dangerous for people who are in poor health or sensitive to heat, such as children and older adults.
Cooling System
Summer is hard on your engine, so it's essential to ensure that you have enough coolant and that it meets the manufacturer's specifications for summer driving. Have your cooling system checked for leaks and the coolant tested before you head out.
Fluid Levels
You should check your fluid levels periodically, but definitely before starting a summer road trip. In addition to the cooling system, check the level of your:
- Brake fluid
- Automatic transmission fluid
Ensure each reservoir is full, and if you see any signs of leakage, have your vehicle serviced.
Belts and Hoses
High temperatures cause rubber belts and hoses to degrade faster. Check your belts and hoses for bulges, blisters, cracks, or cuts, and replace them if there are obvious signs of wear.
Tires
Keeping your tires inflated to the vehicle manufacturer's recommended inflation pressure improves gas mileage and handling and is essential for keeping you and your family safe. Always inflate them to the manufacturer's recommended pressure rather than the pressure listed on the side of the tire.
Battery
Check your battery and charging system and make any necessary repairs or replacements.
Lights
Check your:
- Headlights
- Brake lights
Plan For a Safe Summer Trip
Planning and safety checks before a road trip is always a good idea. Taking steps to ensure your vehicle is ready for the road may spare you the aggravation of a breakdown or an avoidable accident.
Don't let car trouble ruin your road trip. If you're uncomfortable inspecting and maintaining your vehicle or unsure if something is wrong, consult the experts at Subaru. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment and ensure your car is ready for a summer adventure.
