For many drivers in summer means road trip time. It's a great way to get out of familiar confines and see new things at ground level. However, for your car, road trips are like marathons. Getting stuck somewhere unfamiliar is never fun, so make sure that your car is as prepared for a road trip as you are.
Fluid Check
The various fluids that run through your car are like lifeblood. Engine oil is obviously one of the most important fluids, and you should get it changed every 3,000 miles or three months, depending on what your owner's manual recommends. The coolant in your radiator is also important as it helps keep your engine from overheating. A full radiator flush should be done every 50,000 miles or so. Other fluids to get checked include brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and even windshield-wiper fluid.
Tires
You don't want to embark on a road trip with worn tires. If your tires are close to needing a replacement, you might want to consider having them replaced before going on a road trip. At the very least, get them checked and filled to the proper air pressure. Tires should be rotated between 5,000 and 8,000 miles, and most tires need to be replaced between 25,000 and 50,000 miles.
Brake Check
Another vital system you won't want to be without is your brakes. Brake pads last between 25,000 and 70,000 miles depending on how you drive and what the pads are made of. It's a good idea to get the level of brake pad wear checked before you take off.
Air Filter
Your vehicle has two air filters. One is the engine air filter, and it generally needs to be replaced every year. The cabin air filter usually lasts about 15,000 miles. Your air filter helps your engine breathe properly, so a dirty one won't help you on a road trip.
Ready to take that road trip? Stop in our Jason Pilger Chevrolet