Your Summer Road Trip Checklist


summer road trip

The open road is calling your name, but is your car ready to take in the sights that America has to offer? Before you take your vacation or road trip this summer, you need to complete these essential maintenance tasks.

Check Your Oil

Is your oil topped off and in good condition? Before you leave, check your oil level and the date that you are due for an oil change. If you are near the interval of time or mileage that your manufacturer suggests for a change, have it completed before you leave. If your oil seems to be old, discolored or dirty, you should be proactive and have it changed immediately.  If you are going to be traveling a long distance, consider using a synthetic motor oil for the best possible performance.

Look for Cracks in Your Hoses

Rubber hoses are prone to cracking, warping and slipping over time. Because cars get so hot during normal usage, and especially on road trips, you should always check your hoses before leaving on your summer road trip. When hoses get hard, they will crack and let hot water flow out. Open up the hood of your car and check the areas where the radiator hoses attach to the engine and radiator. The hoses that run from your engine into the firewall should also be checked. It’s much easier to have hoses replaced now than when you’re on the road!

Top Off Your Coolant

Is your car over 4 years old? You should have your coolant replaced on a regular basis as part of your maintenance. This can be done at the same time that your oil change is completed. If your car is newer, you have coolant that is made to last 100,000-150,000 miles before needing to be replaced. Quickly lift the hood of your car and check underneath to make sure that the coolant is at an appropriate level.

Swap Your Tires

Are your tires due for a change? Check your tire tread to ensure it is deep enough to be safe for travel in rain and sun. Before your summer road trip, you should also check your tire pressure. Since tires are your vehicle’s source of contact with the road, and losing contact means poor car performance, you should always maintain the recommended tire pressure level. On the inside of your driver’s side door, your optimal tire pressure should be posted. Don’t overfill or underfill your tires.

Have a Safe Summer Road Trip with Maven Motors

Maven Motors auto body shop in Baltimore MD is dedicated to helping every customer with the car repairs that they need to drive their cars safely. We pride ourselves on honesty and integrity and always doing what is right for you, our customer. To learn more about our services, contact us today by calling (410) 358-1114 or visit our body shop.


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