Promotional Travel Safety

Bet you just can’t wait to get on the road again!

If that’s true and you are on the verge of driving off to parts unknown here are some very important points you should consider before you start the engine.
Make absolutely certain you have current insurance and registration information with you at all times.  You should also bring along your car’s owner manual organized maintenance records.

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Do a pre-travel check list before heading out on your summer adventure.
With all that hot weather driving you’re going to be doing take precautions now and assess the condition of the vehicle you plan to use on your trips.

Check all your lights and turn signals and be sure to check all fluids.  Change your oil every 3,000 – 5,000.  Summer months are extremely hard on a car's cooling system.  Inspect your radiator for signs of corrosion or leaking.  Flush the radiator and change engine coolant every two years.

Check and fill other fluids such as the power steering, brake, transmission, battery and radiator to recommended levels and don’t forget to top off the windshield washer fluid.

If your windshield has a chip or ding that damage needs to be repaired before "thermal shock" causes it to turn into a major crack. Thermal shock is what can happen when cold air from the air conditioning blows on a hot windshield.  Repairing a windshield is a lot less expensive than replacing one.
Intense summer heat can mean disaster for an older battery.  The average life of a battery is 31/2 years.  If your battery is that age or older then it's probably time for it to be replaced.

Tire pressure is critical in summer.  Check your owner's manual for recommended tire pressure.  Worn, bald or badly aligned or balanced tires can mean accidents.  Tire pressure should be checked and air added when the tires are cold.  Tire pressure increases one pound for every 10-degree increase in temperature. If you inflate your tires to the maximum pressure indicated on the tire sidewall, you risk tire failure from over-inflation, especially if the tire is worn or damaged.

If you’ll be traveling in remote areas, consider having a full-size spare tire instead of a temporary emergency spare.  Temporary emergency spares only have a 50-to-100 mile life expectancy and may be inadequate for your needs.
Check radiator, heater and vacuum hoses for cracks and bulges and inspect all belts for splits or damage.

Worn or misfiring spark plugs can affect how efficiently a vehicle burns the fuel/air mixture.  Worn spark plugs waste gas and increase exhaust emissions.  Check and replaced as needed.

Don't postpone needed brake work. It's dangerous to drive with poorly performing brakes and postponing brake service will only end up costing you more.

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