Prepare Your Car Before Setting Off on Your Summer Road Trip
Memorial Day is right around the corner, and as the unofficial start to summer rapidly approaches, we’ve got one thing on our mind: Road Trips! Luckily, it’s easy to get your vehicle road-trip ready with this simple acronym: TOWBIF.
Tires
Check your tire pressure to make sure it’s at the recommended pressure level. You can find the recommended level in your vehicle's manual, on the side of the tire itself, or you can just Google it. And don’t forget to check those treads!
Oil
It’s always a good idea to change your vehicle’s oil before taking a long drive during the hot months of summer. Even if you had the oil changed recently, it wouldn't hurt to re-check the oil level on the dipstick just to make sure you’re still topped off and ready to go.
Windows
Don’t go on any major trips with cracked windshields. Cracks can always get worse due to vibrations from the road and expansion from the heat. Tip: take the opportunity to clean your windshield every time you stop for gas. This way, you’ll ensure the view ahead is always crystal clear.
Battery, Brakes, and Belts
Okay, we know this is actually three different items, but they’re all very important! If any of these were to fail on a road trip, it’s not only a major safety issue but could throw a wrench in your vacation plans too. Take the time to visually inspect these items before you leave to make sure they’re in working order, and if you think any of these might have problems, don’t take the chance with them out on the road, get them replaced! And it doesn't hurt to keep a set of jumper cables packed somewhere in your car, just in case.
Interior
Nothing clutters up a car like packing the whole family in with all their gear. Your car will become cluttered on a road trip, so clear out anything you don’t need ahead of time to make it easier to stay organized out on the road (as well as easier to clean at the end of the trip).
Fluids
Make sure all fluids are topped off. Not just the oil as mentioned above, but power steering fluid, windshield wiper fluid and especially the engine coolant. Windshield wiper fluid is vital to keeping your view unobstructed at high speeds on the interstate, and your car really needs coolant, especially in the hot summer sun.
[Tip:] Many vehicles come with roadside assistance. Check with your dealer or insurance company before you head out to guarantee that even if the unexpected happens, you’re prepared.
Here’s the good news: The Volvo Cars Silver Spring service team members are pros at checking all of the above. Schedule a checkup with our service department before any big trips you might have planned to ensure that your car is ready for your summer road trip!