We know the experts will tell you that it’s been a mild winter and snowfall could have been way worse, but let’s be honest – we’re all itching for that warm spring weather to stick around. And after being cooped up in the house for a few months, a spring road trip sounds pretty dandy. Before you hit the open road, here are a few things you’ll want to check off your list to make sure your vehicle is in prime condition:
Check lights and signals.
Save yourself the trouble of having to buy and replace lightbulbs while you’re on the road. Test out your headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals before heading off, and you may want to keep a couple replacements in your glove compartment just in case.
Check tire pressure.
This is something you should do on a regular basis anyway, but especially before a road trip. Use a tire gauge to make sure all tires are at an appropriate weight.
Check air conditioning.
If you’re traveling someplace where the sun is shining bright, it’s worth flipping on the A/C beforehand just to be sure it works. Since you most likely haven’t used it since last summer, test it out to be on the safe side.
Check fluid levels.
Check your fluid levels to make sure you have enough antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, etc. Remember: Do NOT add brake fluid if it’s low. This is a closed system and you likely need new brake pads instead.
Check emergency supply kit.
Better safe than sorry we always say! Check your emergency supply kit for a first aid kit, ice scraper (hey, you never know), flashlight, tools, tire inflator, tire jack, tire gauge, duct tape, batteries, etc.
Check oil.
When is the last time you had your oil changed? We recommend doing so every 3,000-5,000 miles or every six months. If it’s been a little while, stop by Houska so you can start your adventure with a clean slate!
Check gas tank.
This might seem like a no-brainer, but be sure to start off on your journey with a full tank of gas. And – because we’re gas tank half-full type of people – don’t let it dip below that 50 percent mark. Nothing puts a damper on a road trip faster than getting stranded!
As always, stop by Houska for an oil change, tune-up, or just to make sure everything is in working condition before hitting the road so you can have the adventure of a lifetime!