A road trip is a great way to escape from the responsibilities of daily life and enjoy some fresh air and beautiful scenery. But your trip is only as successful as the quality and condition of your vehicle. You can ensure a safe journey free of auto repair concerns by taking a few preventive steps before you leave. Here’s what you should know.

How to Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip

1. Check the Fluids

Your car depends on quality fluids to help it run efficiently. There are six that you should check before leaving, especially if you haven’t been to an auto repair shop in a while for an inspection. The first is oil, which protects your engine. Radiator fluid helps your car stay cool, so check this as well to prevent overheating in the middle of a long drive. Other essentials include brake, transmission, power steering, and windshield fluids.

2. Assess Tire Pressure

You won’t get too far if your tires aren’t in good shape. Make sure they’re not underinflated, as this will reduce your car’s fuel economy. Overinflated tires aren’t any better, either, as it can hinder their performance and reduce traction. Check your vehicle’s manual for the suggested pressure. You can also have an auto repair expert rotate them if it’s been a while to promote balance and equal wear for a smoother ride.  

3. Test the Brakes

If you need to exert extra effort to bring the car to a halt or you hear strange noises when you press the brakes, the brake pads may be worn. If you’re starting to hear a screeching noise, they should be replaced right away before the brake drums are damaged. Take care of this in advance so you can easily navigate heavy traffic during your trip.

4. Replace the Air Filter

The car’s air filter is a friendly spot for all types of debris to collect, from dirt to insects to dust. It’s designed to prevent these contaminants from causing harm to the system, but once they’re clogged, they lose their efficiency. To be safe, replace the air filter approximately every 12,000 miles.

5. Inspect the Battery

Always take a good look at the battery before you leave. Inspect it for signs of corrosion and make sure the leads are securely fastened. Listen to the car as it starts; if it seems sluggish, play it safe by assuming the battery isn’t going to last very long. At this stage, it’s important to replace the battery before you head off on a road trip.

If you’re packing for your road trip, make sure your car is ready for the journey, too. Drivers throughout Putnam County turn to Cookeville Tire & Auto for all their auto repair needs. The company handles it all, from fluid changes and brake fixes to tire installation, always making sure you’re safe on your daily commute and your vacation, complete with a two-year warranty on parts and labor. Visit them online to find out more or call them at (931) 526-9022.