The days are longer, sun is stronger, and summer is fast approaching. However, getting in shape for summer doesn’t just mean hitting the gym. You should also make sure that your car is in good condition before you take off for your summer vacation. Firestone Complete Auto Care provides these tips to help you get your vehicle ready for a road trip:
Preparation
* Before the summer heat hits, be sure to have a full vehicle inspection — including the air conditioner — to be sure it is cooling correctly. This step could help you avoid expensive repairs.
* Check all four tires, as well as the spare, at least once a month and before every long trip. You can check your tire pressure using a tire gauge. Use a tread depth indicator to check the treads.
* When you are packing up vacation necessities, take care not to overload your vehicle. You could cause excessive heat in your tires, which can lead to tire failure.
* Take a few moments to prepare and pack an emergency kit, including jumper cables, a flashlight and batteries, gloves, simple tools, flares, nonperishable food and water, and, if you have one, your auto club membership card.
Get on the Highway
* Use good driving habits. You should not accelerate or stop abruptly. This can cause premature wear to your vehicle’s engine and transmission.
* To improve your fuel economy, try to maintain a constant speed in order to reduce strain on your vehicle. When it is safe, use the cruise control.
* Caught in traffic with a rising temperature gauge? Put the vehicle in neutral, and then give it some gas to help reduce engine heat.
Like you put in the effort to stay fit, in your rush to get out on the road, make sure that your vehicle can safely transport you and your family to your vacation spot.
