Checkout Important Car Maintenance Before Long Trip

Having your car inspected several weeks before a road trip will allow the mechanic enough time to order any parts needed and to fix any problems. A car inspection could avoid breakdowns on the road and save valuable vacation time. Before starting out on your trip, make sure you take your car to an auto repair shop in Amelia.

Essential Car Maintenance Before Long Trip

1. Have your brakes inspected

 

The most essential safety component of your car is the braking system. Without working brakes, you won’t be able to stop in time to avoid an accident or hit an obstacle. Your brakes need to be ready to handle highway driving, city traffic, and any obstacles you might encounter.  Before heading out for a trip, your brakes should be inspected. Ask the car mechanic to also check the brake fluid.

2. Be sure tires are correctly inflated

Flat tires and tire blowouts are a common problem on road trips. Ensure that your tire pressure is correct and that the tires have enough tread left to keep you safe on the road. Depending on the weather, roads can be wet, icy or snow covered, and it is essential that your tires meet these challenges. The condition of the tires is extremely important. Tires need to be properly inflated and inspected for punctures, cuts, bulges, cracks, and tire tread. Defective or worn tires can be dangerous. Bring your car to a professional auto repair shop in Amelia, OH for a tire inspection.

3. Have your fluid levels checked

Having the proper fluid levels can help avoid problems. Brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, radiator coolant, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid should be checked before your road trip. 

4. Check the headlights, tail lights and windshield wipers

Good visibility is always important but it is critical when driving in unfamiliar areas. Headlights illuminate the road so that you can clearly see what is in front of you. Tail lights indicate to other drivers that you are stopping, slowing down, or backing up. If the windshield wipers are worn, your ability to see is diminished. Having properly working headlights, tail lights, and windshield wipers help keep you safely on the road and help in avoiding accidents.

5. Change the engine oil and filter

Oil is a lubricant that reduces the amount of heat the engine produces. Oil changes help eliminate dirt and debris. Oil changes extends the life of your engine, allows for better gas mileage, and is essential in order to keep your car running smoothly. 

6. Maintain the exhaust system

A faulty exhaust system can result in low fuel efficiency, less power, and, in some cases, improper venting of poisonous gas. Engine popping or hissing noises could indicate problems with the catalytic converter, muffler, tailpipe, or exhaust manifold. Have the exhaust system checked by an auto mechanic to prevent breaking down on your trip.

When your car is properly maintained by an auto repair shop in Amelia, Ohio, you can enjoy a safe, hassle-free vacation. Make sure that your car is in tip-top shape before leaving on a family vacation or road trip.