Prep Your Car for Summer Travel with These Great Service Tips

Jun 5, 2023

Just a few more weeks and Summer will be in full swing. We can’t wait! It’s time to pack up that beach gear, stuff those suitcases full of breezy outfits, and make your hotel reservations. But before you hit the road, make sure to get your car ready for all the Summer travel of your dreams with these helpful service tips.

Check your tires. Inspect all of your tires, including the spare/donut if you have one, and check for cuts, bulges, bubbles, or other suspicious damages. Make sure your tires are properly inflated to pressure recommendations (check inside the door frame, or your manufacturer’s manual), and have them rotated for even wear. Consider switching your winter tires for All-Season or Summer tires. It is also a great time to purchase a portable tire inflation device for those just in case situations.

Inspect the wiper blades and windshield. Inspect the glass and make sure there are no nicks or cracks, and if there are, get the glass replaced before you head out on the road! Apply a hydrophobic protective coating on the windshield such as Rain-X or similar, to help increase your visibility in rainy and foggy weather. Replace your wiper blades (check your owner’s manual for proper sizing) and choose the best quality option that you can afford, preferably also with hydrophobic coating on them. Top off your windshield wiper fluid and carry an extra bottle in your trunk to refill – lots of highway driving means lots of dirt, debris, mud, muck, and even bugs will hit your windshield.

Check the brakes. Thoroughly examine and test your brakes, and make sure they are properly serviced about 2 weeks before your big road trip. If you hear any grinding, squealing, or feel any vibrations, service your brakes immediately. A professional mechanic will ensure the brake lines, pads, rotors, shoes, and drums are in good condition, and if there are any problems or fluid leaks.

Service your AC/Heating and Coolant systems. Have your AC serviced and air vents cleaned, and while you’re there have your mechanic check the radiator and coolant as well. The AC is going to draw additional power and fuel from your engine. Extended travel means more mileage and wear-and-tear on the engine, and you want to avoid overheating. However, if your car does start to overheat and you’re in a pinch, turn on the heating system in your car to draw heat away from the engine, and open your windows to keep cool until you can safely pull over and call for roadside assistance.

Up your memberships with your vehicle’s roadside assistance plans or similar service such as AAA. Make sure that you’re covered in case of emergency, especially if you’re planning to do some long distance road tripping, or even some car-camping. These services can save you a lot of aggravation, time, and money in the event of an emergency or accident.

Refill your emergency kit and replenish first aid supplies. Always make sure your roadside emergency kit is prepared for warm weather emergencies. Stock up on space-saving water bottles, instant ice packs, cooling blankets and cooling towels, sunscreen, and other general First Aid supplies. In the event of an emergency, you’ll be able to keep cool while you wait for help, as well as you’ll be able to administer basic first aid and stay hydrated!