With kids out of school and tons of family activities planned, you’re bound to be doing a lot of driving this summer. But there’s one thing that can put a major damper on your summer fun: a broken-down vehicle. So before you head off on a summer road trip, check out these few tips to make sure your car is road-ready.
One of the first things you should do is check your vehicle for any damage or wear and tear that the harsh winter weather may have caused. You should look both inside and outside and check for rust or other damages. Additionally, give your wiper blades a once over to make sure they’re ready to handle the summer rain storms. And lastly, you should wash your car. Both the interior and exterior take a major beating during the winter, so make sure your car is free of any leftover debris or grime.
Along with cleaning your car, you should take a peek under the hood. Recent research has found that about 77% of cars are currently in need of maintenance. So to avoid breaking down on the side of the road, make sure to give your car a good look over. Check for cracks in hoses, frayed belts, and test your battery. Additionally, take a few minutes to check all of your fluids. Spending a few minutes doing these tasks can make a huge difference in ensuring your vehicle is ready for summer.
Before going on a long road trip, one of the most important things to do is check your tires. In the colder weather, tires can lose air more rapidly. So before heading off, make sure your tires, including the spare, are properly inflated. Additionally, make sure your tread is in good condition and that your alignment is right.
With the hot summer heat on its way, you’re going to want to make sure your vehicle’s air conditioning system is in good condition. You should check to make sure any leaks are properly sealed and the system is cleaned. Along with this, you should ensure the air filter is free of debris. Cabin filters are pretty easy to change so make sure this is done so you can enjoy clean, cool air this summer.
If your car is old and gives you one problem after another, it may be time to consider replacing it. A PwC forecast predicts that there will be about 107 million vehicles manufactured around the world in 2020 — so if you do need a new vehicle, you’ll have plenty to choose from. While a vehicle is a big financial investment, it’s important to provide your family with safe and comfortable transportation to the best of your abilities.
Hopefully, these tips will help you feel more prepared to tackle all that summer has to throw at you this year. With the proper preparation, you and your family can enjoy a nice, smooth car ride wherever life takes you.
