Travel Blog

It is that time of year when families are planing their summer vacation. Many people are considering short trips with their cars to a camping site or perhaps to one of the theme parks across the country. Getting your vehicle ready for summer vacation is one of the things you need to consider before going on that driving trip. With gas prices high in the spring, and going higher just in time for summer vacation, many people are considering just how far they will go.

Regardless of whether you are planning a long trip by car or just a short one to see the family or visit a campsite, it is always a good idea to have your car checked before you go. If you already hear some noise that does not sound normal, get it checked out before you leave. No one wants a break down on the highway with a load of luggage and the family.

Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Summer Vacation

In addition the obvious, the following items are worthwhile having your mechanic look at to ensure that you will have no problems while traveling:

• Oil Change
• Check anti freeze
• Check transmission oil level
• Confirm brake fluid levels
• Check power steering fluid level
• Check windshield washer fluid level
• Assess your tires for inflation and unusual wear
• Check that all of your lights are operating properly

Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Summer Vacation

Check for Low Fluids

Low fluids can cause problems that range from irritation to serious issues with your car. Always have these checked on a regular basis, and especially when you are about to go on a long trip.

Look for uneven Tire Wear

Improper tire wear is an indication that your cars alignment may be out or your tires need to be balanced. Failure to deal with this issue will cause your tires to wear out quickly and also may even cause an uncomfortable ride due to the vibration.

Check Tire Pressure

Tire pressure is also important. Better gas mileage and safer driving are the main benefits of making sure that your tires are properly inflated.

Check the Lights

Check all of the lights as well including brake lights and turning lights. A faulty light may cause you to be in an unsafe situation if someone does not see your car at night or fails to see that you are turning or stopping due to a light not working. Some police forces will also stop you for lights that are not working properly. Usually they just give you a warning and not a ticket.

Get an Oil Change

New clean oil will not only make sure that your engine runs more smoothly, it will also deliver better gas mileage and emit less pollution. My car once failed an emission test much to be disappointment. The attendant suggested that I get the oil changed and that I make sure that I had clean fuel in the engine. I followed his suggestions and my car passed with flying colors next time it was tested for emissions.

If you are going on a long trip, always make sure you have fresh oil in the engine to generate better gas mileage and less pollution! For more tips about travelling by vehicle, click here.

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