May 11, 2022
oil changes

Imagine this scenario: you’re packed up and ready to go on your much-anticipated road trip. You’ve been looking forward to it for some days, and finally, the day has arrived. But as you pull out of your driveway, you realize that something feels off.

Your car is making noise that it never made before. Worse yet, you notice that your steering wheel is wobbling more than usual. Uh oh. You may have skipped a few car maintenance steps before your trip! Don’t let this happen to you. Follow routine car maintenance services with Lynn Layton Ford to keep your car in top-notch condition.

Check out these valuable tips to make sure your car is in good shape before going on a long ride.

Importance of Car Maintenance
While car maintenance is often overlooked in favor of more exciting activities, it is critical for ensuring the performance and safety of your car. Regular car maintenance services, like oil changes and tire rotations, can help to prevent significant issues from developing down the road.

Car Maintenance Tips
If you’re planning on a long journey, it’s essential to make sure your car is in tip-top condition before you hit the road. Here are some important car maintenance tips to keep in mind:

Check Tire Pressure
Check your tire pressure and treads regularly. It is essential to do this before going on a long car ride, as under-inflated or worn-out tires can be a safety hazard and cause you to lose control of your car.

Inspect All Car Fluids
Ensure all fluids are topped up, including oil, coolant, brake fluid, etc. Low levels of these fluids can affect your car’s performance and may even lead to costly repairs.

Keep Emergency Items
Keep emergency items like water bottles, snacks, a first-aid kit, and jumper cables in your car to prepare for the unexpected and reduce any stress or anxiety if something goes wrong along the way.

Check the Car Battery
A car’s battery is one of the most critical components of the vehicle, and it’s also one of the most likely to fail. Before a long trip, make sure to have your car battery checked by a professional. If it’s more than three years old, you may want to consider replacing it entirely.

Check Car Wiring
Another vital car component to check before a long trip is the car’s wiring. Over time, car wires can become damaged or corroded, causing issues from signaling problems to fires. If you observe any signs of wear and tear on your car’s wiring system—such as frayed wires or exposed metal ends—it’s best to have it replaced by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

Before you set out on your summer road trip, take some time to do essential car maintenance. By following these five tips, you can help ensure that your vehicle is in good shape for the long journey ahead.
Schedule a service appointment with Lynn Layton Ford serving Oakland, AL. We’ll make sure everything is ready to go for your trip.v