Spring is finally here, and summer will soon be right behind it. Whether it’s spring break or summer vacation, soon families all over the country will be taking time off from work and school to go on family road trips.
Are you and your family planning a trip? Before you go loading up the car with all your luggage and hit the road you need to make sure your car is up for the challenge!
There are a few simple ways you can get your family car road trip ready to ensure you’ll be able to handle any incidents that may occur along the way and get to your vacation destination.
Here are a few tips to help you out.
Check your tires
Before you embark on any long trip, making sure your tires are in good shape should be at the top of your “to-do list.” You never know what kind of road or weather conditions you may encounter along the way so be sure your tires are up for any task.
Give your tires the old Penny Test to check your tire tread. Make sure your tires’ pressure is topped off to the appropriate level. Check them for any signs of wear or rot. If you encounter any issues, take your car in to get a check-up or have your tires replaced before you leave.
Have a spare tire and tools ready
Look, no one wants to deal with a flat tire while you are in the middle of a long road trip. If you’ve been there, you know it’s a nightmare. But, the worst-case scenario rarely happens when it’s convenient, so it pays to be ready for any situation.
Before you head out, make sure you have all the proper tools to be able to handle a flat tire. Be sure to have the following: a spare tire, tire iron, jack and a flashlight, in case you’re stuck on the side of the road at night. With all these handy, a flat tire won’t be a vacation killer and just be a minor setback.
Top off fluids
Transmission fluid, oil, windshield wiper fluid, coolant and brake fluid are crucial to getting peak performance from your vehicle and providing you with a smooth ride. Before you head out, either on your own or during a professional inspection, make sure all these essential fluids are topped off.
Speaking of oil, the days leading up to a road trip are a good time to get an oil change, if necessary. Smart car care dictates having your oil changed every three months or every 3,000 miles. If you are due for an oil change, now is a great time to do it.
Pack jumper cables
Much like a flat tire, a dead battery is something no one ever wants to deal with. But, if you are stuck in a situation where a dead battery is your reality you need to be able to handle it. Make sure your car is packed with a set of jumper cables or a portable battery charger pack.
With either or both of these, you’ll be able to get yourself out a jam or help a stranger in need.
Now you’re ready to hit the road for a little fun in the spring and summer sun! If you need a little help get your vehicle road trip ready, bring it around to Raben Tire!