How to Prep Your Car For a Road Trip

Summertime is the season when most people do a lot of traveling. However, this year traveling looks a little bit different because of COVID-19. According to the U.S. Travel Association, most travelers don’t feel comfortable traveling on a crowded bus or plane this year and prefer their own transportation. If you’re planning a road trip this summer, here are some tips to prepare your car before you leave, whether you’re a seasoned pro or if this is your first road trip.

Make Sure Your Car Won’t Reach Any Service Milestones

Before leaving, think about how long it’s been since your car has been serviced and how far you’ve driven since. Calculate how many miles you’ll be traveling and if you’ll be hitting any service milestones during your trip, schedule an early service appointment before leaving. If you won’t be reaching a service milestone, but you have any concern about your vehicle operating properly, schedule a service appointment.

Make Sure To Check Your Car’s Tires

When tires perform at their best, they make sure your journey is safe, comfortable, and fuel efficient. One of the most important things to measure in your tires is the air pressure. If your tires are underinflated you will waste gas and when you’re driving long miles on a road trip, it’s not guaranteed there will always be a gas station readily available. Also, overinflation causes the tires to wear quicker. Be sure to check your vehicle’s owner manual for the tires’ correct air pressure.

Keep Up With General Maintenance

There are many parts of a car that work to make sure the car operates safely and efficiently. When one or more of these parts is not working their best, it can be dangerous especially when driving long distances. Before embarking on your road trip, make sure to check:

• Air filters
• Brake pads
• Light bulbs
• Belts and hoses

Clean Up

Depending on where you are planning to travel to, you and your passengers might be in the car for a long time. Be sure to take the time to clean seats, floor mats, cup holders, the dashboard, and the trunk so that luggage won’t be damaged. It’s also a good idea to wash the exterior as well.

Your road trip will be that much more enjoyable if you take the necessary steps to prepare. If your vehicle is due for a service, you just want to make sure everything is working properly, or you have a question, call Jaguar North Haven or make a service appointment.