Summer is here, and that means summer road trips are here and the coronavirus pandemic has made road-tripping a real hot ticket!
Being able to jump in your car and go on an adventure leads to many summer memories. What’s more, driving is a safe, attractive and economic choice to get away for the summer. Preparing your car ahead of your summer road trip ensures that your drive is relaxing and stress-free. To prepare your vehicle, take a look at these tips to make sure that your vehicle is in tiptop form, and been thoroughly checked and serviced by a trusted auto repair shop.
A holiday trip should be one that’s enjoyable and hassle-free, so you should prepare and plan to avoid any last-minute surprises. On top of your accommodation or tour bookings, begin with making a checklist of things to pack like warm clothing, emergency kits, food, and water to take along during the drive.
Prepare to sit for long hours by taking a good rest or exercise before the trip to condition your body. Ensure that your gadgets are working properly especially the ones you use for maps and communications. Make a playlist of good songs that will energize your mood as you drive and to keep your passengers entertained. Keep snacks and drinks for yourself and passengers. If driving with kids, bring their toys to keep them busy and avoid distracting you. Remember, safety is the most important thing to keep in mind when on the road.
When it comes to your car, here are some reminders to help you prepare your vehicle and be ready for a safe and pleasant trip:
- Begin your trip with a clean car, both inside and out. Put a small garbage bin for your waste
- Check cabin air filter to make sure you have clean fresh air and no musty odor from your vents
- Check headlights and signals and cover front of the car with a protective sheet to prevent bug clogs or other damage
- Check your tires for wear and tear, better to use all-season tires, Check tire pressure
- Check your brakes. Check the brake system for fluid leaks, and the pads, rotors, shoes and drums
- Check your oil and oil filter and all fluid levels including transmission, and power steering
- Check the windshield wiper water reservoir level and test your wiper blades to make sure they are working perfectly
- Check your air-con and make sure its working well
- Ensure that your tools are handy like tire jack and flashlight
- Pack a fire extinguisher
- Pack a plastic funnel and container in your emergency kit for any fluids you may need for your car
- Keep in mind these necessary cables; Car charger for your phone, auxiliary cable if applicable, USB cables, camera chargers, drone chargers, etc
- ER kit – stock an emergency kit in case of an accident or medical issue. Include things like a flashlight, blanket, basic tools, first-aid kit and rags
- Kid friendly – if you are driving with kids, make sure you pack enough snacks, water, games, music, and videos to keep them comfortable and occupied during the trip
- Always fill your gas tank when it is half full. Do not wait too long
New additions because of the Covid-19 pandemic:
- Hand sanitizer
- Disposable gloves
- Face masks
- Clorox wipes
In preparing your car for a holiday trip, proper maintenance is a must. Your car would need extra care before driving hundreds of miles. Make an appointment and bring your car to have us perform a pre-trip checkup. Our professional and well-trained mechanics will do a complete inspection of your auto transmission and overall health of your car.
Angel’s Transmission and Auto Repair in Mission Viejo has a team of highly qualified technicians and certified mechanics who can assist in caring for your car. Give us a call at (949) 587-9060 and have your car checked and serviced before embarking on your summer road trip.
