Summer Checklist
With Summer already upon us and vacation time on the horizon, you might be looking at a future that involves a lot of driving. If that’s the case, you should consider being certain that your vehicle is in good shape before doing so. There are a number of things you should include in that assessment:
1. Tires: when was the last time you really looked at them? Is there any cracking or uneven wearing? If so, you need to consider getting a professional alignment and balancing assessment to be sure that there aren’t any serious problems. Not only will this make your car safer to drive, but you’ll get better gas mileage with proper alignment and balancing. Obviously, tire pressure is another thing you’ll want to check. Be sure all tires are inflated to their recommended pressures. While you’re at it, how’s the tread on the tires? If you’re not sure, try the old tried-and-true method of placing a penny upside down (Abe Lincoln’s head upside down) into your tread, and ask yourself: can I see the top of his head?
If you can, your tire tread is worn down, and you should consider replacing the tire or tires. Also, don’t forget to check your spare tire! If you see some problems that need fixing, we at Ditmire Motorworks are here to help.
2. Brakes: obviously, being able to have adequate braking power is critical if you’ve got some driving to do! Don’t mess around with these, if it’s been a while since you’ve had brake work, have a professional take a look! Pads, shoes, and rotors should all be inspected as well as fluid levels to ensure maximum safety.
3. Battery: unless you don’t mind being stranded, make sure your battery isn’t going to let you down. Check the battery connections to be sure they’re tight and free of corrosion. You can do that yourself and clean the connections with a wire brush, or we’re happy to do it for you. This is particularly necessary if your battery is more than two years old.
4. Belts and Hoses: these are sometimes overlooked by drivers, but they’re absolutely essential parts of your electrical, power steering, and cooling systems, and they need to be properly maintained. Belts need to be tight….belt and hoses also need to be free from cracks, and there shouldn’t be leaks. If either of these are problems, come see us, and we’ll take care of you!
5. Fluids and Filters: make sure that all fluids are topped off, and make sure that filters are clean and functional. Clogged air filters are going to limit performance and could lead to bigger problems down the road (pun intended!). Getting air filters replaced, especially before big road trips, can lead to better gas mileage as well as performance. Also, if your vehicle is a bit older, you might want to have your radiator checked for corrosion. We’re happy to check for you as well as all the other things just mentioned.
6. Air Conditioning and Windshield Wipers: no one likes sitting in or riding in a hot car! Come visit us and make sure your AC is in tip-top condition before really big roadtrips! Likewise, it can frustrating, scary, and dangerous if your windshield wipers are not doing their job during a storm. Get these checked out before heading out on the road! Also consider carrying spare windshield washer fluid in the event that you deplete your reservoir.
Make sure YOU ARE checking off all the boxes before heading out, and come see us at Ditmire Motorworks if you want to be absolutely sure you’re ready to go!
