3 Often Forgotten Areas Of Car Maintenance To Remember Before Your Summer Road Trip

Whether you are going a few hours away to the beach or you and your family are heading to a popular theme park, the drive to your destination should be memorable and safe. Since summer is quickly approaching, now is the time to prepare your car for this upcoming road trip. You may already understand the need for changing the oil and replacing fluids, such as windshield washer fluid and coolant, but other tasks are also necessary. By remembering these often forgotten elements of car maintenance, you will be able to keep your car and family safe while enjoying a road trip this summer:

Tires

Again, you most likely have already had the oil changed in your car since it is recommended every few thousand miles. However, you should focus on other areas of your car to ensure it will be in proper running condition before you leave on your road trip.

To get started, check the tire tread and air pressure levels. Without a sufficient amount of tread and air pressure, your tires will not be able to grip the road in dry conditions, which can become very dangerous in rainy weather that leaves the road wet and slippery.

Use a penny to check your tire tread. Place President Lincoln's head down in between a few areas of tread on your tire. If you are able to see the top of Lincoln's head, your tires do not have a safe amount of tread. Do not drive the vehicle until you have replaced these worn tires.

Use a digital gauge to check the air pressure in your tires, as well. If low, you may have a slow leak that could lead to a flat while on your road trip. Refill the air and check the air pressure a few days later to determine if you have this leak. Patch or replace the damaged tire if necessary.

Windshield Wipers

Another common element that is often forgotten is the windshield wipers. Check the wipers to make sure the arms are moving across the window without sticking. Spray the windshield wiper fluid to dampen the glass before checking the wiper blades. The blades should remove the fluid from the glass quickly and evenly.

Even a small amount of rain left on your windshield can prevent you from having a clear line of sight while driving. If the rubber blades are damaged, replace your windshield wipers before departing on your road trip.

Lights

Most people assume their lights are working properly, but making this assumption can be dangerous. Even if you have no plans of driving in the dark, your lights are necessary in case it is foggy or begins to rain.

Before leaving on your trip, walk around your car to check the status of your lights. Turn your vehicle's lights on and check each exterior light. Do not forget to check your brake lights, as these will be necessary at all times of the day and in every type of weather.

Summer getaways are fun and exciting, but proper maintenance on your car is essential for safety. With this guide and the help from a company like http://soundsideauto.com/, you will know what not to forget when it comes to preparing your car for the road trip.