With the kids out of school and the hot weather, summer is an excellent time to take a family road trip. However, is your car geared up for an adventure? To ensure your vehicle makes it to your destination and back, use this auto repair checklist to prepare it for the journey.

How to Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip

1. Tires

Your tires support your car and its essential systems, from the transmission to the exhaust. Unfortunately, they also deal with hot pavement, high speeds, and a barrage of abrasive objects lying on the roadway. Before leaving, make sure your tires are filled to the manufacturer-recommended PSI (pounds per square inch), which can be found in your manual. If the tread is worn-down, have your tires replaced before your vacation to avoid a blowout. To check this, stick a penny in one of the grooves—if Lincoln’s head is uncovered, you’re ready for a replacement.

2. Fluids

To stay cool in the interior of the car, check on the fluid supplies. The brake fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant should all be topped off before you leave, as well as flushed out and replaced if thick and dirty. Also, schedule an oil change before your road trip, as this removes and replaces the oil that lubricates the engine’s moving parts. Over time, the oil will become sludge-like, increasing friction between the gears and pistons and eventually leading your car to break down on the side of the road.

3. General Maintenance

Protect your passengers by performing a few general auto repair tasks before heading out on a summer trip. For example, at night, your headlights will be crucial to your family’s safety, especially on poorly lit backroads. Your brake lights and turn signals must also be intact to prevent other cars from rear-ending yours. To protect your car in a thunderstorm, make sure your windshield wipers are lubricated, and replace them if they don’t completely clear water from the glass.

If you need help with any of the above tasks, visit Dansville Auto Mart in Livingston County, NY. In addition to selling top-quality used and pre-owned cars, they also provide auto repair services. From brake repairs to tire replacements, they will ensure your vehicle is fit for an unforgettable summer vacation. To learn more about their impressive inventory, visit the website. Call (585) 335-8280 to speak with a professional about auto repairs.