Today, tomorrow and this weekend are the busiest travel days of the year. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, “The Thanksgiving and Christmas/New Year’s holiday periods are among the busiest long-distance travel periods of the year. During the 6-day Thanksgiving travel period, the number of long-distance trips (to and from a destination 50 miles or more away) increases by 54 percent, and during the Christmas/New Year’s Holiday period the number rises by 23 percent, compared to the average number for the remainder of the year. And although heavy media attention focuses on crowded airports and bus and train stations on the Wednesday before and Sunday after Thanksgiving, when personal vehicle trips are added to the mix the National Household Travel Survey (NHTS) reveals that Thanksgiving Day is actually a heavier long-distance travel day than Wednesday”
In order to have a safe and reliable trip, make sure your car, truck or minivan is in top condition before you hit the road. Here are a few things to keep in mind and take care of before you travel over the next few weeks.
Tires: You don’t have to get new tires, but make sure they are inflated, rotated and aligned properly for smooth driving and better gas mileage.
Antifreeze: Especially once December hits, make sure your anti-freeze is checked and at the proper level.
Oil Change: Have a quick oil change before you take to the road. Again, it will help you optimize your gas mileage and get the most out of your vehicle, especially on a long distance trip.
Wiper Fluid: It may sound easy simple but having your windshield wiper fluid at the right level will make a huge difference. For bad weather, snow, ice and salt it can be a hassle and not having the fluid can cause a dangerous driving experience. Even if you live here in Southern California, but are making a long drive to Tahoe or Northern California, you might consider getting this checked before you leave.
We suggest bringing in your vehicle to our shop and having everything taken care of at once, quick and easy.
