Prepare your car before your vacation

Planning to get away for a week or so? Sightseeing, driving from place to place, anticipating 7 to 10 days of traveling from one venue to another with only a night or two per hotel – it should be a great trip. But be sure that planning includes planning ahead with your car.

The extra miles and the starting and stopping that most families do on vacations can be hard on a vehicle, especially if you are visiting an area that features extreme temperatures and extreme terrain. We advise taking the time to give your car a close look. Many of these safety checks are things you can do yourself.

For example, check the treads on your tires. If they appear worn, or if wear appears uneven on any of the tires, consult your car care expert and consider replacing them. Even if your tires are in good condition, it is worth scheduling an alignment, so they perform at their best during your long drive.

Check the condition and level of your engine oil. The oil that is dirty does not protect your engine, and a low oil level could indicate a leak or that your engine is burning more oil than normal. Check your driveway and garage for stains from leaking oil and consult an expert if you aren’t sure. If your car is older and burns more oil, you may want to pack an extra quart or two for your trip.

Consider replacing your wiper blades before heading out. Worn wiper blades can be a real hazard in inclement weather, especially on unfamiliar roads. Check headlights, taillights, and turn signal lights, as well, and replace burned-out bulbs. Your owner’s manual provides details on the proper bulb and how to replace it.

It is always wise to head off problems before they occur. At Ken’s Auto, we are available to provide safety and maintenance checks before the start of the vacation season. Our experts will check all fluid levels, your battery charge and your brakes and suspension to be sure your vacation goes off without a hitch. We’ll also check your exhaust system to be sure that your muffler and all connecting pipes and mounts are secure and in good condition.

Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare your car for a vacation. Call Ken’s Auto today for an appointment!