Summer is almost here and many people are planning their summer road trip. Part of that planning should include making sure that you schedule a car service as well as any necessary repairs before heading down the road. Even small problems, such as a flat tire or bad windshield wiper blades can turn your trip into a frustrating experience. You really don’t want to find out what happens if you don’t service your car while on a road trip!
So that you can experience a stress-free road trip, consider these tips:
- Know how your vehicle works. Read your owner’s manual (it should be in your glovebox) as it explains everything you need to know about your vehicle—from using overdrive when towing on to how to change a flat tire.
- Watch for signs of potential problems. Try to notice any unusual signs that could turn into a problem while on the road, such as excessive vibration, unusual noises, “drifting” to the side of the road, or “mushy” brakes. Tell your car repair technician about your observations and have them checked out in your pre-trip inspection.
- Make a pre-trip inspection part of your planning. This inspection should include:
- Oil and filter changed (especially if it is due while you are gone).
- Tires rotated and alignment and balancing adjusted if necessary. Check air pressure and tread depth (including the spare).
- The battery should be holding a strong charge.
- Check all fluids and top-off if necessary (antifreeze/coolant, brake, power steering, transmission, and windshield cleaner).
- Replace the air filter if it has reached the recommended mileage interval.
- Make sure the horn is loud and clear for use during an emergency situation.
- Windshield wipers should be replaced if they are older than six months.
- Replace any burned out or broken light bulbs
- Make sure the A/C is keeping you cool.
- Pack an emergency kit. This kit should include first aid supplies, roadside flares, quart or two of oil, extra fuses, flashlight, multipurpose tool, tire inflator and jack, a few rags, pocket knife, phone charger, bottled water, a blanket, and snacks.
For questions about what happens if you don’t service your car, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about car service and repair and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.
Summer is almost here and many people are planning their summer road trip. Part of that planning should include making sure that you schedule a car service as well as any necessary repairs before heading down the road. Even small problems, such as a flat tire or bad windshield wiper blades can turn your trip into a frustrating experience. You really don’t want to find out what happens if you don’t service your car while on a road trip!
So that you can experience a stress-free road trip, consider these tips:
- Know how your vehicle works. Read your owner’s manual (it should be in your glovebox) as it explains everything you need to know about your vehicle—from using overdrive when towing on to how to change a flat tire.
- Watch for signs of potential problems. Try to notice any unusual signs that could turn into a problem while on the road, such as excessive vibration, unusual noises, “drifting” to the side of the road, or “mushy” brakes. Tell your car repair technician about your observations and have them checked out in your pre-trip inspection.
- Make a pre-trip inspection part of your planning. This inspection should include:
- Oil and filter changed (especially if it is due while you are gone).
- Tires rotated and alignment and balancing adjusted if necessary. Check air pressure and tread depth (including the spare).
- The battery should be holding a strong charge.
- Check all fluids and top-off if necessary (antifreeze/coolant, brake, power steering, transmission, and windshield cleaner).
- Replace the air filter if it has reached the recommended mileage interval.
- Make sure the horn is loud and clear for use during an emergency situation.
- Windshield wipers should be replaced if they are older than six months.
- Replace any burned out or broken light bulbs
- Make sure the A/C is keeping you cool.
- Pack an emergency kit. This kit should include first aid supplies, roadside flares, quart or two of oil, extra fuses, flashlight, multipurpose tool, tire inflator and jack, a few rags, pocket knife, phone charger, bottled water, a blanket, and snacks.
For questions about what happens if you don’t service your car, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about car service and repair and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.
