Road trips are a common form of travel, with an astounding 97 percent of all summer vacations being on-the-road adventures. Your car must be prepared for the rigors of frequent driving and changing weather and road conditions to have the safest and most enjoyable road-tripping experience. The following are a few auto maintenance tips to get your vehicle ready for an upcoming journey.

How to Get Your Vehicle Ready for a Road Trip

1. Check Fluid Levels

Have your mechanic check and fill the fluids your vehicle needs to run efficiently. This should include a full oil change to keep the engine's internal parts well-lubricated and free of damage; filling your antifreeze to prevent the car from overheating; and checking and topping off your brake, transmission, power steering, and windshield wiper fluids.

2. Inspect the Tires

Perform the penny test to measure the tread of your vehicle's tires. A healthy amount of tread is crucial for safe driving, helping the car effectively grip the road, rid the tires of water on wet roads, and ensuring an overall smooth driving experience. Insert a penny upside-down into each of your four tires. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, the tire's tread is less than 2/32 of an inch, and the tire needs replacing. But even if you have a fair amount of tread left, it's a good idea to have an auto maintenance professional do a tire rotation or alignment. This promotes even tread wear and improves balance, handling, and traction. Also, check that your spare tire is properly inflated.

3. Test the Brakes

Take the car out for a short drive and try out the brakes. Be mindful of any squeaks or squeals when you depress the pedal; these signify that the vehicle needs new brake pads. If the brake pedal feels unusually soft when pushed, the brake fluid is running low. A wobbling or vibrating sensation when braking is likely an indicator of an uneven rotor. Be sure to have these issues addressed before embarking on a road trip.

When you need comprehensive auto maintenance before a road trip, visit Foley Auto & RV Repair. They have over 20 years' experience serving the Foley, AL, area. Their ASE®-certified technicians offer a wide range of auto repair and maintenance options, including RV repairs, vehicle inspections, and all the services discussed above. Call (251) 971-3770 or visit them online to schedule service.