Planning a road trip can be so exciting! Including vehicle maintenance in your planning can be the single most important item on your list.
Begin with a visual inspection of your vehicle. Confirm that all lights are in good working order including turn signals, hazard and backup lights, headlights, brights, license plate and interior lights. If any of your lights seem dim it is a good idea to replace them. It's also a good idea to keep a kit of spare bulbs in your trunk or glove compartment.
Next, check your spare with a tire gauge to be sure it is inflated properly. Then inspect the tires for wear and proper inflation. Replace tires if they are worn. If they are worn unevenly, you may need an alignment. Otherwise, it is a good idea to have your tires rotated and balanced before your trip.
Inspect all of your windshield wipers to be sure they are supple with no nicks or tears and replace them if necessary.
Don't forget under the hood. Check all hoses and belts to be sure that they are not loose and have no cracks or obvious wear. Check your fluid levels. It may be wise to have your radiator flushed and refilled with at least half antifreeze and half water. Dependent upon the date of your last oil change, an oil change may be in order before your trip.
Most drivers aren’t comfortable performing their own vehicle maintenance, so be sure to take it to your mechanic. Your mechanic is qualified to examine and test various systems such as filters, electrical, heating and cooling, brakes and transmission fluids as well as recharge your air conditioning if necessary. Vehicle maintenance will maximize your gas mileage and minimize your concerns while driving, so you can better enjoy your adventure!
Wondering about routine car maintenance issues? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about car maintenance and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, MN, and Otsego, Minnesota.
Planning a road trip can be so exciting! Including vehicle maintenance in your planning can be the single most important item on your list.
Begin with a visual inspection of your vehicle. Confirm that all lights are in good working order including turn signals, hazard and backup lights, headlights, brights, license plate and interior lights. If any of your lights seem dim it is a good idea to replace them. It's also a good idea to keep a kit of spare bulbs in your trunk or glove compartment.
Next, check your spare with a tire gauge to be sure it is inflated properly. Then inspect the tires for wear and proper inflation. Replace tires if they are worn. If they are worn unevenly, you may need an alignment. Otherwise, it is a good idea to have your tires rotated and balanced before your trip.
Inspect all of your windshield wipers to be sure they are supple with no nicks or tears and replace them if necessary.
Don't forget under the hood. Check all hoses and belts to be sure that they are not loose and have no cracks or obvious wear. Check your fluid levels. It may be wise to have your radiator flushed and refilled with at least half antifreeze and half water. Dependent upon the date of your last oil change, an oil change may be in order before your trip.
Most drivers aren’t comfortable performing their own vehicle maintenance, so be sure to take it to your mechanic. Your mechanic is qualified to examine and test various systems such as filters, electrical, heating and cooling, brakes and transmission fluids as well as recharge your air conditioning if necessary. Vehicle maintenance will maximize your gas mileage and minimize your concerns while driving, so you can better enjoy your adventure!
Wondering about routine car maintenance issues? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about car maintenance and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, MN, and Otsego, Minnesota.
