Car Inspections for Your Spring Break Road Trips
As we approach spring, it’s time to start thinking about Spring Break. If you’re planning to travel during that time off and enjoy a road trip, it’s important that your car is in good enough shape to get you where you’re going. Total Auto Care in North Branch recommends taking your vehicle in for an inspection before your spring break road trip, especially to check in on these vital auto parts.
Why Do I Need a Road Trip Inspection?
Checking the condition of your car before a long trip — whether on your own or by professionals — starts your trip off right by improving your safety and giving yourself peace of mind. By inspecting your car, you are likely to catch signs of any potential driving hazards or even general wear and tear, and remove, replace, or repair them. That way you don’t have to worry about car trouble over the course of the trip.
Battery Check
Part of your road trip inspection should involve testing your battery’s ability to hold charge, especially if it is over three years old. Also, make sure that there is no corrosion on the battery terminals, and that the connections are secure.
Brakes
If your brakes are showing any signs of wear or damage — squealing, grinding, vibration, or feeling soft when you brake — you absolutely should have your Total Auto Care technicians take a look. If you have not experienced these signs, you should still take a look at your brake pads and rotors to see if they have worn down. If they have, get them replaced before your trip for your safety.
Tires
Before you go, you will want to inspect the pressure (PSI) and tread depth of your tires, as well as looking them over for signs of damage or uneven wear. You can find the recommended PSI listed on the inside of the driver’s side door or in your car’s owner manual, and check the tread depth using the penny test, built-in wear indicators, or even a ruler. If you notice uneven wear or damage on your tires, get them replaced. And don’t forget to inspect your spare tire as well.
Lights
Take the time to make sure all of your exterior lights are working, and replace any dead bulbs. This includes your car’s headlights, tail lights, turn signals, and brake lights.
Fluids and Filters
Check on all the fluid levels in your vehicle. If your engine oil is old, take care of your oil change before your trip. Your coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and wiper fluid should all be topped off to keep everything in your car working smoothly during your trip. Also take the time to check on your engine and cabin air filters. If they are clogged, replace them.
Inspection at Total Auto Care
Inspecting all the different car parts and systems before your spring break trip is important, but it can be a hassle, especially if you’re not familiar with what to look for. The ASE Master Certified Techs at Total Auto Care are happy to handle these inspections for you so that you can focus on the fun of vacation planning. Give us a call or book an appointment today.
