Get ready for the classic family vacation: the road trip. But before setting out on your fun-filled cross-country adventure, prepare your car for the open road. These 10 tips will ready your car for the open road:
Maintain A/C
No one wants to drive during the dog days of summer in a car sans air conditioning. Check cabin filters and replace them each year to maximize airflow. This will keep your family comfortable and cool – whether you’re driving across the country, or across town.
Check Essential Fluids
The five main fluids to inspect include: coolant, oil, transmission, brake and power steering. Low levels could indicate leaks or could signal a more serious problem.
Keep it Clean
As we discussed in last month’s post, washing your car in the shade prevents hard water spots. Avoid this, since spots on windows or mirrors compromise visibility. Clean the interior side of windows, to improve clarity, as well.
Watch Tires
Keep tires properly pressured. This not only reduces your risk of a flat, but also prevents uneven wear. Also, check tire tread. Place a penny (upside down), with the head side facing you. If you see Lincoln’s head, pop for a new set of tires.
Secure Battery
Over time, vibration can undermine the integrity of your battery. To lengthen battery life, tighten the bolts where the battery is mounted, to minimize movement on the road. Start regularly testing batteries after three years. Mechanics should provide an estimate of remaining battery life. Check yours before heading out on vacation since you don’t want to end up on the side of the road in the middle of summer.
Purchase a Sunshade
Protect the interior of your car from sun damage. Some sunshades come equipped with solar panels to maintain battery charge. Using a shade will not only guard the dashboard but will ensure your steering wheel remains cool to the touch.Hydrate
While traveling in the heat, take care of your car. Overheating frequently occurs when the motor gets hot and the A/C is cranked. Before heading out, make sure fluid levels are adequate. And pay attention to dashboard lights, which can alert you if internal temps start to rise.
Don’t forget to take care of yourself and your passengers. Keep a stocked cooler in the back. Cold water and electrolytes will ensure everyone can keep their cool.
Focus on the Road
In a world which revolves around smartphones, driving distractions abound. Keep your eyes on the road whenever you’re at the wheel. Set up a hands-free alternative if cellphone use while driving is a must. Or enlist a reliable co-pilot to manage your phone so you can keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.
Pull Over, if Necessary
Stopping the car to use your phone could keep you, your car, and your passengers safe. Staying conscious of warning signs that you need a break – such as if you start to feel drowsy or sick. Make passenger safety your number one priority.Back Off
Make sure you leave plenty of space between vehicles. Tailgating is a common cause of accidents. So, while you’re on the open road, sit back and relax and enjoy the ride. But don’t nod off. Falling asleep at the wheel can put you and your car in harm’s way.
Summer Savings
No matter how carefully you drive this summer, some accidents are unavoidable. From cleaning up bugs stuck in the grill to repairing damage suffered in fender-benders, we can help with repairs or auto detailing. Take advantage of our summer promotion. Mention this blog post to receive 10% off your insurance deductible. Trust C&L Auto Body to keep your car in tip-top shape no matter what the summer holds.
About C&L Auto Body
The “go-to” location for auto body repair and classic restoration in the San Gabriel Valley, since 1970, our company is known for attention to detail, courteous service, and fair and affordable prices. If you select C&L to repair your car, our concierge service will help make your entire auto body repair process easy on you. We will even help you arrange for a rental car and deal directly with your insurance company. C&L Auto Body is owned and operated by the Buonsanti family, who strives to treat clients like family. Come by the shop 781 E San Bernardino Road in Covina, call (626) 445-6630 or visit CandLAutoBody.com.