Multi-Point Inspection
Have a multi-point inspection done by a professional mechanic. Ensure they inspect the wipers, cooling system, and exterior lights for your comfort and safety behind the wheel. Particular attention should be paid to your brake pads and rotors, tire tread and pressures, suspension and steering, and a full-system fluid check should be performed before you hit the road.
Get Your Brakes Fixed
If you were told during your last maintenance inspection that there was an issue with your brakes, now’s the time to get them fixed. Issues with brake pads, rotors, or brake fluid levels can cause a breakdown during travel. Any squeaking or grinding sounds you notice as you drive can indicate that your brakes need attention as part of your summer road trip preparation checklist.
Check Your Air Conditioning System
You can’t head off on a summer road trip without working AC in your car. Make sure your coolant is topped up and your fans are working. It is recommended to do a complete flush of your vehicle’s cooling system and add new coolant every 5-6 years to keep it working dependably on even the hottest days.
Inspect Your Tires
No season is harder on tires than summer; if yours are over-inflated, you are at an increased risk of a blowout. Check your tire pressure to make sure that you are within the safe suggested range.
Most manufacturers and mechanics suggest replacing tires after six years of use. Before you start your summer road trip preparation, make sure that your tires are still reliable.
Check Your Lights
Before leaving, check all of your lights—front and back. It is essential that your vehicle can safely indicate turns and lane changes, especially when you are driving in an unfamiliar area. If any are burnt out, replacement bulbs are inexpensive and easy to install on your own or with the help of a mechanic.
Pack Your Emergency Kit
In case of a breakdown, have a car safety kit packed and ready. You may want to pack additional fluids, such as engine oil and coolant, in addition to safety cones, jumper cables, a flashlight, and the tools you need to change a flat tire.
Buy a Pre-Owned Vehicle From Race Auto Group for Your Summer Travel
The high heat of summer can put your car at risk if it hasn’t been properly maintained or inspected beforehand. Fortunately, summer road trip preparation lists are simple to check off, and when you buy a reliable pre-owned vehicle from Race Auto Group, that work is already done for you. Purchase a vehicle that is ready for the road, with all safety checks and required maintenance already completed.
Browse the best used cars in Nova Scotia at Race Auto Group and find the car that’s best suited to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about summer road trip preparation and how to avoid a breakdown while on the road.
Should I bring my car in for an inspection before a summer road trip?
It is always a good idea to have a professional mechanic perform a detailed inspection of your vehicle as part of your summer road trip preparation. This way, you know that all of your car's systems are fully prepared for what’s to come.
Should I buy new tires for my car if I’m going on a road trip?
If your tires are in good condition, there is no reason to change them unless they are aged. Worn tires, however, can literally fall apart while driving at highway speeds in the summer heat. It’s very dangerous to attempt a road trip on tires that are under-inflated, over-inflated, or with significant wear.
How do I get an inspection for my car’s cooling system?
Ask your local mechanic to inspect your car’s cooling system. They will go over the radiator, thermostat, and water pump to ensure the engine is being fed enough to keep it within recommended temperatures.