Summer is almost here and may people are planning summer road trips instead of going on planes or trains. An essential part of your plans should include taking your car into your auto repair shop to take care of any necessary auto repair services before heading down the road. Even small problems, such as a burned out headlight or a flat tire can turn your fun trip into a frustrating experience.
Here are a four simple tips that will help make your road trip an enjoyable experience:
- Read your owner's manual. This little book (keep it in your glovebox) tells you what type of auto repair services are recommended for your vehicle, plus instructions on how to use any special features, such as using overdrive when you tow a trailer or how to change a tire.
- Potential problems? Pay attention to signs of potential problems, such as vibrations or irregular noise, or if your car starts to “drift” to the side of the road. Let your mechanic know of specific issues so they can be taken care of before they turn into emergency situations.
- Pre-Trip Inspection. This should be performed by an automotive professional and should include:
- Oil—Have the oil changed if it is due while you are gone.
- Tires—Have the tires rotated, alignment and balance checked, air pressure adjusted, and tread wear checked. Don’t forget to check the spare tire too.
- Car battery—make sure it is holding a charge and that the alternator is keeping it charged.
- Fluids—Check and top-off as needed; antifreeze/coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield cleaner.
- Air filter—If the air filter has reached the recommended mileage service interval, it is time to replace it.
- Horn—make sure it is loud and clear for use during an emergency situation.
- Windshield wipers—they should be replaced about every six months.
- Lights—replace any burned out or broken bulbs
- A/C—Make sure it is keeping you cool.
- Items to Pack.First aid kit, roadside flares, extra quart of oil, extra fuses, flashlight, multipurpose tool, tire inflator and jack, a few rags, pocket knife, phone charger, bottled water, a blanket, and some snacks.
Looking for a trustworthy auto repair shop before your summer road trip? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about our auto repair services and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
Summer is almost here and may people are planning summer road trips instead of going on planes or trains. An essential part of your plans should include taking your car into your auto repair shop to take care of any necessary auto repair services before heading down the road. Even small problems, such as a burned out headlight or a flat tire can turn your fun trip into a frustrating experience.
Here are a four simple tips that will help make your road trip an enjoyable experience:
- Read your owner's manual. This little book (keep it in your glovebox) tells you what type of auto repair services are recommended for your vehicle, plus instructions on how to use any special features, such as using overdrive when you tow a trailer or how to change a tire.
- Potential problems? Pay attention to signs of potential problems, such as vibrations or irregular noise, or if your car starts to “drift” to the side of the road. Let your mechanic know of specific issues so they can be taken care of before they turn into emergency situations.
- Pre-Trip Inspection. This should be performed by an automotive professional and should include:
- Oil—Have the oil changed if it is due while you are gone.
- Tires—Have the tires rotated, alignment and balance checked, air pressure adjusted, and tread wear checked. Don’t forget to check the spare tire too.
- Car battery—make sure it is holding a charge and that the alternator is keeping it charged.
- Fluids—Check and top-off as needed; antifreeze/coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield cleaner.
- Air filter—If the air filter has reached the recommended mileage service interval, it is time to replace it.
- Horn—make sure it is loud and clear for use during an emergency situation.
- Windshield wipers—they should be replaced about every six months.
- Lights—replace any burned out or broken bulbs
- A/C—Make sure it is keeping you cool.
- Items to Pack.First aid kit, roadside flares, extra quart of oil, extra fuses, flashlight, multipurpose tool, tire inflator and jack, a few rags, pocket knife, phone charger, bottled water, a blanket, and some snacks.
Looking for a trustworthy auto repair shop before your summer road trip? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about our auto repair services and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
