ESSENTIAL CAR MAINTENANCE BEFORE A LONG ROAD TRIP


Driving to the coast for a summertime getaway with the family? Jumping in the car for a trip to Etosha? If so, you'll be sharing the road with thousands of excited road-trippers.

To make your summer road trip as smooth as possible, you'll want to take care of your car so that it can take care of you. Tackle these five important maintenance services at any of our service centres, https://bit.ly/3oekhEB before you head out on a long drive to help ensure you reach your destination effortlessly.

1. MAINTAIN THE EXHAUST SYSTEM.

Never thought to check the condition of your exhaust system? The middle of nowhere isn't a place you want to wish that you had. A faulty exhaust system could mean poor fuel efficiency and decreased power.

If you've been hearing engine noises like popping and hissing, checking your exhaust system is vital to road trip success. The noises could signal problems with the exhaust manifold, muffler, tailpipe, or catalytic converter.

And if you're not hearing engine noises? It's still a good idea to have one of our technicians look at your car's exhaust system before a long trip.

You don't want to exhaust yourself having to get a broken-down car fixed during your vacation. Book a service here: https://bit.ly/3qW6Evx.

2. ADJUST THE STEERING AND SUSPENSION.

Loose steering parts, damaged shocks or struts, broken or worn-out mounts or bushings, and vehicle swaying or bouncing could throw a wrench in your summer plans and cause a really bumpy trip.

Before you hit the road, point your dash in the direction of any of our professionals https://bit.ly/3qW6Evx who can examine your car's steering and suspension system to ensure a smooth ride to your vacation destination.

3. EXAMINE THE TIRES AND ALIGNMENT.

Getting a flat tire is one of the most common reasons that drivers call roadside assistance. To help prevent a flat-tire disaster, ask our trained technicians to inspect your alignment and tires, including the spare, https://bit.ly/3qW6Evx

Among other things, a tire check includes a look at:

  • Tire Pressure: Is the tire pressure set to what is recommended in your owner's manual? An under or overinflated tire can lead to a variety of issues, such as a bumpy ride, premature wear, overheating and, worst of all, a tire blowout.
  • Tire Wear: Is your tire tread in good condition? Are the tire wear patterns uneven? You can't depend on your tires if the tread is not deep enough or there is too much wear to gain traction on the road.

A tire inspection could also reveal misalignment, which can decrease the lifespan of your tires and reduce fuel efficiency.

4. GIVE YOUR BRAKES A BREAK.

The braking system is one of the most critical safety features of your car. But like many other car parts, it can overheat and put your family at risk, especially if it has not been serviced in a while.

Make sure the braking system is in tip-top shape before you and your family hop in the car and head out for a summer drive. You never know what kind of conditions you might encounter on a long road trip, from stop-and-go city traffic to animals crossing the highway.

A thorough brake check can get to the bottom of brake warning signs like grinding, squeaking, steering-wheel shaking, and sponginess when the brake pedal is applied. This includes an examination of the brake pads, rotors, drums, hoses, and brake fluid.

5. PERFORM GENERAL MAINTENANCE.

Don't overlook the seemingly little items that could put a roadblock in your summer road trip. Among other things, a trained technician can check your car's:

  • Fluid levels, like engine oil and coolant
  • Spark plugs
  • Fuel, and air filters
  • Battery charge

Once you address these five maintenance tasks, whether they result in tweaks, repairs, or replacements, you can relax and truly enjoy your summer road trip. Pro tip? Book a service online: https://bit.ly/3qW6Evx and let Pupkewitz Motors take care of everything.