Before embarking on a fun road trip, it’s important to ensure your car is ready. By being diligent about its preparation, you can expect a seamless, enjoyable ride, and avoid irritating stops and problems along the way. Here’s a guide to what types of car maintenance you should pursue before the trip. 

How to Ready Your Car for a Road Trip

1. Prep Your Battery

To ensure that your battery is in good condition, it’s important to eliminate any corrosion that may have developed over time with a professional cleaning. That can happen if enough hydrogen gas emerges from the battery’s acid, forming deposits and making it so you may not be able to start your car. Additionally, your battery may be limited in the power it can supply and suffer from undercharging if the corrosion has reached the negative terminal.

2. Check Your Fluids

When you’re going to be asking a lot of your vehicle, it’s essential to replace any low fluids. Head over to a car maintenance shop and have them check your oil, so your engine can stay lubricated, and the coolant, so it won’t overheat. It’s also worth having them evaluate the brake and transmission fluids. Brake fluid is an essential part of the braking system, ultimately providing the force that stops your car—without proper lubrication, you might not be able to stop. The transmission fluid keeps this part of your vehicle well-lubricated and cool, helping avoid dangerous friction and overheating.  

3. Assess Your Tires

Any road trip is a test for the tires. With so many miles driven, it’s important to ensure that they can handle the rigors of the road. That means checking for proper tread depth with the Lincoln penny test. Insert any old penny into your tread with his head face down—if you can still see the top of his head after it’s in place, it means that less than 2/32" tread is left and you’ll need a new tire.

It’s also a good idea to identify your tire’s ideal pressure (by the driver's side doorjamb or in the owner's manual) before using a gauge to measure and then make the necessary adjustments. There’s nothing that can derail a pleasant joyride more than developing a flat and having to call for help. Once your tires are in shape, you’ll have peace of mind that a wonderful journey awaits. 

If you’re going on a road trip soon, head over to the top mechanics at Ken Marcotte's Professional Auto Service in Loveland, OH, first. Bringing over three decades of experience, the fully insured and ASE-certified team will help you with the car maintenance you need before your excursion. Call (513) 683-7852 to schedule an appointment or visit their website for a full list of services.