Sunscreen, giant cooler and a few good novels and you are all set for your summer road trip, right? Not quite. You might be ready, but is your car ready? Auto maintenance may be the last thing on your mind right now, but it will up front and center if you find yourself stuck at the side of the road. Spend a few hours on simple car maintenance now and you will thank yourself later!
Radiator Flush
Your radiator fluid is not intended to last forever. With time it breaks downs and starts to corrode your rad. This can cause cooling problems and lead to costly repairs. An annual radiator flush is inexpensive and a good way to prevent radiator problems.
Replace Your Air Filter
Your air filter should be replaced twice a year. It only takes about five minutes, so just get that out of way before you forget.
Tire Check
You should be checking your tires regularly anyway. But, it is doubly important before a long trip. Make sure your tread is up to par for rainy weather. It only takes about a minute. While you are down there, check tire pressure, too.
Replace Worn out Windshield Wipers
Ice, snow and cold weather is brutal on your windshield wipers. This renders them practically useless in heavy rain. Replacing them at the end of spring will save you a lot of trouble later.
Check Your Brakes
Stopping is just as important as starting, if not more. You should inspect your brakes at least twice a year. A safe car should be at the top of your priority list any time of year!
Check Your Battery
The connections on your battery are subject to corrosion, especially during the winter. Check the posts and cables to make sure you won’t have any starting problems.
Check All Lights
When you are inside your car it is difficult to notice when a bulb goes out. Properly working headlights, tail lights and signal lights is vital to your safety. Plus, you could get a ticket if one or more of your lights are out!
Your car is your responsibility and keeping it in good working order should be a top priority. You will be safer and others around you will be safer. You are also required to act responsibly. That means don’t drink and drive, don’t drive when you are sleepy and don’t talk on your cell phone or become distracted while driving!
