When you’re en route to an exciting vacation destination, the last thing you want to worry about is your car sputtering to a halt. Unfortunately, many travelers find they experience issues that necessitate roadside assistance. Here are three ways to prepare your vehicle for a long road trip and minimize problems. 

How to Get Your Car Ready for Vacation

1. Have Your Tires Checked & Rotated

To prevent emergencies like flat or blown-out tires, always have your car’s tires checked, rotated, and serviced prior to leaving on your trip. Keep in mind that all tires have an expiration date, since rubber degrades over time, so consider having your tires replaced early if you’re planning to take a long ride. 

2. Clean Your Car Thoroughly 

Taking care of your car before you depart won’t just make your trip more pleasant – it can also prove helpful to have a well-organized car should an emergency arise. In addition to cleaning your car’s vinyl and vacuuming the entire interior, take a few minutes to organize your car’s glove compartment and center console to make it easier to store items like roadside assistance gear and user manuals. 

3. Top Off Your Fluids

The fluids that your car’s engine uses to stay cool and functional will eventually start to degrade, contributing to engine sludge that can wear components. Windshield wiper liquid will also deplete over time, making it hard to clean your windows on the go. Have your oil, radiator fluids, and wiper levels topped off or replaced before your trip to make your travels smoother. 

No matter how prepared you feel for a long journey, you should always keep the number of a towing company handy in case you need roadside assistance. The experienced towing professionals at Platinum Towing and Transport LLC will help with everything from jump-starts and lockouts to tire changes and other forms of repair work. If you have questions about roadside assistance, send them a message online today or call them at (314) 300-8694.