Road Trip Check List for Your Car
Summer is road trip time, and it’s essential that you remember more than just swimsuits and sunscreen when you are getting ready to hit the road.
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Lube, Oil, and Filter Change
Your car’s engine is going to be doing the heavy lifting as you are headed down the road. The oil in your engine is vital to keeping you moving along. Make sure the oil level is where it ought to be. And if you are due for an oil change, or even if you think your road trip will get you up to the mileage needed for your next service, consider doing it before you go. Why tempt fate? Having to fix a car while you are on vacation is a hassle to say the least.
If you’re due or close, and you are running out of time before your vacation starts, give us a call. Oil Revo will come to you at your work or home and take care of that oil change for you.
Tire Pressure
Your tires are the only thing between you and the road. Literally. So you definitely want to check the air pressure in them before you go. If you’re not sure what pressure they should have in them, you can typically find that information on a placard in the doorframe (on the inside edge of the door or on the frame). If not on the door frame, it may be in your center console or inside the glove compartment. The information is also in the owner’s manual as well.
If you see different air pressures listed for the front tires and the back. Manufacturers will often do this to compensate for engine weight or ride stability.
What’s the Difference Between the Car Manufacturer Tire Pressure and the Pressure Stamped on the Side of the Tire?
If you are confused about the difference between the tire pressure on the placard or in the owner’s manual versus the tire pressure stamped onto the actual tire, you’re not the first one, nor will you be the last. But, at least we can explain.
The tire pressure listed on the tire is the maximum pressure that tire manufacturer recommends to be in that tire. Meaning, it’s not advisable to inflate the tire beyond that point.
That does not mean, however, that your car will perform its best when the tire is filled to its maximum.
The pressure in your owner’s manual or on the placard is the actual pressure you want. That is the best air pressure level, as determined by the car manufacturer, who tested that car for a long time, with those tires on it to see what worked best. They do this to balance out fuel economy, ride comfort, and stability.
What Tire Pressure if the vehicle is loaded up heavily?
If you are loading your car up with lots of people and luggage, its perfectly acceptable to add a few extra pounds of air pressure to help carry the extra weight. It can even help improve fuel mileage if you do. Just remember, never exceed the max tire pressure printed on the tire. That is what that number is for. And don’t forget to put the pressure back where it is supposed to be when you get home and unloaded after your trip.
Spare Tire
Similar to checking your tire air pressure, it’s also important to make sure you have a good spare that is also properly filled with air. In addition, make sure you know where the jack is, and verify it has all its pieces (lever, lug wrench, and extensions depending on what variety you have). Never leave town without a good spare tire.
Check All Fluids
Oil is not the only important fluid in your car. You’ll also want to check the level and condition of the coolant (antifreeze), transmission fluid, brake fluid, and even the washer fluid. All of these are important to ensuring your summer road trip goes smoothly.
Check the Belts and Hoses
Fan belts and serpentine belts are one of the most common causes of breakdowns on the road. It’s never fun to hear the flap-flapping of a busted belt or see the warning light on the dash when one of them breaks and triggers the alert. But the good news is, replacing belts is usually quick and simple, and generally you can tell if a belt is wearing out. Deep cracks or fraying along the edges are tell tale signs. Some cracks are normal on serpentine belts, but deep ones are a no-go.
Hoses are similar, in that they are made of rubber that can get old and brittle too. Check for hoses that feel very soft and spongey or that have swollen or blistered parts. If you’re not sure what to look for, have them checked by a professional. We can certainly check them for you while we are at your work or home handling your regular oil change services.
Call Oil Revo – Let Us Help
If you’d like us to service your vehicle, do an oil change, and do a courtesy inspection before your next road trip, we are here to help. Give us a call today. 833-Oil-Revo