How to Prepare for a Long Drive in Hagerstown, MD

Summer is nearly here! As the weather heats up, there are a variety of ways to get your vehicle ready for all of your summertime adventures. Make sure your vehicle is ready to take on your travels with confidence so that you don’t have to contend with any unanticipated delays. Make sure to evaluate your vehicle to make sure it is ready to take on anything you throw at it. Some elements to evaluate before hitting the road include:

1. Check fluid levels for your vehicle and replace or refill as needed. Fluids to check include:

• Oil

• Radiator fluid

• Brake fluid

• Power steering fluid

• Transmission fluid

• Windshield wiper fluid

2. Evaluate your tire condition. Beyond ensuring your tire tread is in great shape, you should also consider the following elements:

• Check your tire pressure every 1,000 miles

• Be sure your tires are being rotated every 5,000-8,000 miles

• Consider the age of your tirs and the number of miles driven on those tires. Generally, tires should be replaced every 25,000-50,000 miles, depending on the type and use. If you notice sidewall bulges, replace your tires immediately

3. Air filters prevent gunk, dust,debris, and bugs from entering your vehicle’s engine or interior. Air filters that reach capacity can clog, impacting engine performance, fuel economy, and interior air quality. Air filters should typically be replaced every 12,000 miles.

4. Consider the condition of your brake pads to be sure they have not become too thin or producing a screeching or squealing noise

5. Check you headlights, taillights, and brake lights. Also evaluate your left and right blinkers to ensure all bulbs are functioning

6. Under the hood of your car, take a look at your vehicle’s belts and hoses. If you notice cracking, fraying, or missing teeth on your belts, consider replacing. Check your hoses for leaking near joining point for leaks