With the weather continuing to warm, many families are taking the next few months to plan a big road trip. Before you hit that open road, it’s vital that you ensure your vehicle is in solid working condition. With the right maintenance regimen, you’ll have a wonderful trip and get to avoid any unanticipated auto repair stops along the way. Here’s a guide to three of the most important checks you can make. 

3 Elements to Assess Before Your Trip

1. Tires

With all the miles you’ll be logging, it’s important to check your tires. The summer increases the risk of a blowout. The heat causes the air inside the tires to expand, creating additional pressure. Before you head out each day, measure the air pressure within and ensure that it’s between 32-35 psi, or the range that your owner’s manual recommends. It’s also worth performing a penny test to see if the tread is still safe. Insert the penny into the tire’s tread groove with Lincoln’s head facing you and upside down. If the top of his head is still visible, you should have your tire replaced before the trip. 

2. Oil

Since your engine will be working overtime, it’s necessary that it gets the care it needs. This means checking up on your motor oil. The liquid provides lubrication and helps keep your engine parts from dangerous friction and overheating. If it’s been too long since your last flush, the oil will break down into a grime-filled sludge that can no longer do its job. You can examine the oil level with a dipstick, or head over to an auto repair shop for a professional inspection. 

3. Battery

The summer is a rough time for car batteries. When the temperature reaches a certain point, it can take a half-charged battery and zap it down to zero. No one wants their car to die right in the middle of a trip, so before you depart, wipe down the terminals to remove corrosion. You should also head over to an auto repair shop to have the unit charged. The professionals can run deeper tests to examine if you need a new battery, as they only tend to last around five years before a decline in performance. 

Before you head out, bring your vehicle by Brown County Automotive in Mount Orab, OH, for a comprehensive tune-up. The professionals will run a full auto diagnostic and perform a thorough inspection to quickly identify any problems and fix them. With the help of this auto repair veteran crew, you can avoid any extra stops in the middle of your joy ride. You can reach the car service team by calling (800) 315-6669. Learn more about the shop by visiting their website.