Safe Summer Travel

Children will be getting out of school soon, and the family vacations will begin. Is your vehicle prepared for the long haul? Here are some helpful tips to prepare your vehicle for your summer excursion:

Check your battery

Summer heat can get the best of your battery. Be sure to clean the surface of your battery and check to see that the posts and cables are connected properly. If you can remove the cap to your battery, check your fluid level, but be careful to avoid contact with battery acid and other chemicals. Always wear gloves and eye protection.

Check your fluid levels

Get your cooling system checked, flushed and filled before you head out on your trip. While you’re at it, make sure you have proper levels of engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission fluids, and windshield washer cleaner.

Inspect your hoses and belts

Check your hoses and belts for tears and cracks, or for indications that they will soon have one. Damaged or loose belts can cause the engine to overheat. Not having the belt replaced properly could cause serious engine problems.

Get the most of your gas mileage

With the soar in prices, you want to get the most out of your gas mileage. Make sure your gas cap is in good condition. Missing or damaged caps cause 147 million gallons of gas to vaporize each year. If your tires are not inflated properly, you could be losing a mile or two per gallon. Replace your air filter if it is dirty or clogged and get up to 10% better gas mileage.

Don’t wait; go get your car checked now so you don’t wind up on the side of the road.

Source: “Tips to get your vehicle ready for safe summer travel.” MotorTrend Auto News. May 25, 2006.

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