Things to Check on Your Car Before a Road Trip!
Taking a long road trip by car is the best way to see America and a wonderful way to learn a little about the country and its culture. Before you head down the road, make sure that your vehicle is up to the task. Keeping your regularly scheduled car service up-to-date can help keep your vacation from becoming a nightmare, with bills for several thousands of dollars in car repair work. Even a small problem, such as a worn-out windshield wiper or improper alignment, may turn your trip into a crisis.
- What’s in the trunk? Stock your car with a first aid kit and an emergency kit, including roadside flares, oil, extra fuses, a flashlight, a multipurpose tool, a tire inflator, some rags, and a pocket knife. Also don’t forget a phone charger, bottled water, a blanket, and some snacks.
- Signs of a potential problem. If you notice any vibrations or irregular noise, if the engine knocks, or if the car “wanders” to the side of the road, have it checked out by your mechanic.
- Review your owner's manual. This is the best source of useful information about your car, from using overdrive when you tow a trailer to how to change a tire. Look for the proper tire pressure, how to change a headlight bulb, and other things you might need to do unexpectedly while away from home.
- Pre-Trip Maintenance. Many important parts in your car can only be inspected by a professional mechanic so make an appointment at your auto shop before you leave. Ask for a "pre-trip maintenance package,” which may include some or all of the following:
- oil change
- tires--rotation, alignment, balancing, air pressure (including the spare)
- antifreeze (coolant) level in the overflow tank
- check battery's cranking speed
- check and top-off if needed, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer reservoir
- change the air filter if you haven't done so recently
- check the jack and make sure it is working
- check the horn
- the windshield wipers, replace if needed
- all the lights, have some extra light bulbs on hand
- make sure the heater and air conditioner are in good working order
Wondering what things to check on your car before a road trip? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Heights Car Care today for more information about car service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of Heights, Billings, MT, and the surrounding area.
Taking a long road trip by car is the best way to see America and a wonderful way to learn a little about the country and its culture. Before you head down the road, make sure that your vehicle is up to the task. Keeping your regularly scheduled car service up-to-date can help keep your vacation from becoming a nightmare, with bills for several thousands of dollars in car repair work. Even a small problem, such as a worn-out windshield wiper or improper alignment, may turn your trip into a crisis.
- What’s in the trunk? Stock your car with a first aid kit and an emergency kit, including roadside flares, oil, extra fuses, a flashlight, a multipurpose tool, a tire inflator, some rags, and a pocket knife. Also don’t forget a phone charger, bottled water, a blanket, and some snacks.
- Signs of a potential problem. If you notice any vibrations or irregular noise, if the engine knocks, or if the car “wanders” to the side of the road, have it checked out by your mechanic.
- Review your owner's manual. This is the best source of useful information about your car, from using overdrive when you tow a trailer to how to change a tire. Look for the proper tire pressure, how to change a headlight bulb, and other things you might need to do unexpectedly while away from home.
- Pre-Trip Maintenance. Many important parts in your car can only be inspected by a professional mechanic so make an appointment at your auto shop before you leave. Ask for a "pre-trip maintenance package,” which may include some or all of the following:
- oil change
- tires--rotation, alignment, balancing, air pressure (including the spare)
- antifreeze (coolant) level in the overflow tank
- check battery's cranking speed
- check and top-off if needed, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer reservoir
- change the air filter if you haven't done so recently
- check the jack and make sure it is working
- check the horn
- the windshield wipers, replace if needed
- all the lights, have some extra light bulbs on hand
- make sure the heater and air conditioner are in good working order
Wondering what things to check on your car before a road trip? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Heights Car Care today for more information about car service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of Heights, Billings, MT, and the surrounding area.
