6 Tips for Preparing Your Car for a Long Road Trip This Holiday Season

It’s almost the holiday season, which means more vehicles will be out on the road. During the Coronavirus pandemic, families prefer to take road trips over flying. Before you leave for your trip, make sure your car is in the best condition to protect your vehicle, passengers, and other drivers on the road.

Although car servicing is important all year long, make sure you are taking these precautions before going on a long road trip:

Check Your Radiator Fluid

On a long road trip, your engine will produce a lot of heat, and radiator fluid will help keep it cool. Radiator fluid, also referred to as coolant or antifreeze, will extract heat from your engine and dissolves it through your radiator. It’s crucial to maintain your radiator fluid levels because if it drops too low, it can cause your engine to overheat and potentially ruin your engine.

Brake Fluid

Your brakes are one of the most important functions of your car. If there is something wrong with your brake system, you will usually be able to tell almost immediately. There are typically five warning signs that will tell you if your car needs new brake fluid. If you notice any of these signs, make sure you’re bringing your vehicle to a mechanic immediately.

Signs It’s Time for New Brake Fluid:

  • Difficulty pushing down your brake pedal
  • Anti-lock Braking System light pops on
  • Unusual Noises
  • Squealing, grinding or squeaking while braking
  • A burning smell

As a rule of thumb, your brake fluid is recommended to be changed every two years.

Tire Pressures

Before you hit the road, make sure you’re checking your tire pressures. When you continue to drive on uneven tires, you are potentially decreasing your tire’s lifespan. If you are not positive how much air should be in your tires, your owner’s manual will usually tell you.

If you’re planning on taking a long road trip, you should continue to check your tire pressure every 1,000 miles to ensure you aren’t driving on underinflated tires. You should also continue to check in on your tire’s pressure if you drive through significant temperature changes.

Plan a Tire Rotation

Along with checking your tire pressure, you should also use this time to make sure your tires are properly rotated. When you rotate your tires, it helps them wear more evenly and last longer. It’s recommended for tires to be rotated about every 5,000 to 8,000 miles.

Your tires will typically last you anywhere between 25,000 to 50,000 miles. Whether it’s a simple fix or an entire tire replacement, make sure you’re taking the proactive measures before getting on the road.

Replace Your Windshield Wiper Blade

The last thing you’ll want is to get caught in a rainstorm without working windshield wipers. Keeping your windshield clear of precipitation, moisture, and any other debris is critical for a safe driving experience. When your windshield wipers are worn down or broken, you can become a hazard on the road.

Luckily, replacing your windshield wiper blades is an easy fix when you bring your vehicle to a professional. An experienced mechanic will be able to tell if your wiper blade needs to be repaired or replaced.

Check Your Headlights and Taillights

Whether you’re driving during the day or throughout the night, it’s important to make sure all of your headlights, taillights, and blinkers work properly. An easy way to check this yourself is by turning on your car, putting it in the park, and doing a full inspection around the car. Your lights are an important safety feature that will keep you and others safe on the road, especially in the evening or during inclement weather.

Auto Repair and Maintenance Services in Lancaster, CA

At AV Bumper to Bumper, we will do everything we can to guarantee that your vehicle is ready for your next road trip. Whether it’s a tune-up or a complex service, we will make sure that you leave our shop with your vehicle running smoothly.

Please contact us today with any questions, concerns or to schedule an appointment!

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