Whether you’re going hunting or treating the family to a vacation, summer is the perfect season for Alaskans to plan road trips. To prevent mishaps and untimely interruptions along the way, it’s a good idea to perform some auto maintenance checks before you leave. Use the following checklist to make sure your vehicle is in top shape for the journey.

How to Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip

1. Inspect the Fluids

Check your fluids, including transmission fluid, power steering fluid, antifreeze, brake fluid, and windshield wiper fluid, and top them off if necessary to keep your car functioning smoothly. If you’re due for an oil change, take care of it before your departure. You can tell you need an oil change if the dipstick comes out dark and sludgy during a test, or if the oil doesn’t reach the markings engraved on the stick.

2. Test the Lights

Avoid getting pulled over by checking all of your lights at home. Test your headlights and turn signals, and have someone stand behind your car to confirm your brake lights and taillights are functioning. You can also check them yourself by parking with your back end facing a large window.

3. Examine Your Tires

The last thing you want on a road trip is a flat tire. Give each tire a thorough examination for tread wear, bulges, and punctures. Tires with excessive wear and bubbles must be replaced, but punctures that aren’t on the sidewall or shoulder can usually be patched. Also, check your tire pressure and inflate any that are low.

4. Check the Brakes

If your brakes have been squealing, vibrating, or giving you any other trouble, have a mechanic take a look. If they tell you your brakes are a four or below—which means you have 40% or less of your brake pad lining left—you should replace your pads before going on a long trip.

5. Schedule an Inspection

If you want to be extra cautious, schedule a full auto maintenance check for a comprehensive look into the shape of your car. The battery, engine, wipers, air conditioner, and tires are just a few of the features included in this checkup. Regular inspections will also keep your car in excellent condition and extend its lifespan.

With a 27-point inspection from the skilled mechanics at Alaskan Auto Center, you can enjoy your road trip with peace of mind. Serving drivers throughout Anchorage, this auto maintenance and repair center offers quality work, quick turnarounds, and honest, reliable service. Their knowledgeable technicians are dedicated to helping you find the most cost-effective solutions for keeping your vehicle in great shape. Contact the team at (907) 522-7035 to schedule your inspection, or learn more about their auto repair services on their website.