How To Get Your Vehicle Ready for Your Next Road Trip

Don't let your vehicle break down during a road trip. Whether you're unable to leave your driveway or you stall out in the middle of a crowded freeway, having your vehicle break down on your drive can be frustrating and stressful. Being proactive and prepared is the the best way to combat this. Inspect these critical components to get your vehicle ready for your next road trip and avoid being sidelined on the road waiting for a tow truck:

Check the oil level:

Your oil helps to regulate the temperature of your engine, preventing it from overheating by lubricating important internal components. Typically, oil changes occur every 5,000-8,000 miles, or whenever your vehicle owner's manual recommends. You can check your oil in just a few simple steps. First, pop the hood of your engine and find the engine's dipstick (it should look like a plastic ring sticking out of your engine). Next, remove the dipstick from the engine and wipe it on a cloth. After this, stick it in your engine again and remove it. The dipstick will have "FULL" and "EMPTY" labels on its side. If the oil level only reaches to the "EMPTY" component, it's time for an oil change!

Check your tire tread:

You're going to need working tires in order to enjoy your road trip! Over time, your tires can wear down on their tread, reducing their ability to effectively grip the road. You can check the tread of your tires using the "penny method" to save yourself some time. Place a penny face down between the grooves of your tires. If you can't see Lincoln's head, your tires have adequate tread and should be able to handle the road ahead. If you can see his head, however, this means your tread has worn down and your tires need to be replaced as soon as possible! Make sure you know how to take care of your tires to ensure they last a long time.

Listen to your brakes:

Does braking take longer than it used to? Does it pull your vehicle to the side as you slow to a stop? Does it make a loud grinding or screeching noise when you brake? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it may be time to have your brakes looked at. Make sure you know when to get your brakes inspected to keep everyone on the road safe, including yourself and your passengers! Repaired or replaced brakes can make all the difference in the world, whether you're going on a road trip or simply commuting to work.

Make sure your coolant is filled:

On long drives, your vehicle's engine can overheat with increased usage. Your engine's coolant serves to reduce and maintain an even temperature with your vehicle's engine. It's one of the most important components of your vehicle, and without it, overheating could permanently damage your vehicle! The easy part, however, is that it is extremely easy to check. Engine coolant is typically replaced every 30,000 miles, or whenever your vehicle owner's manual estimates. Pop the hood of your engine and look for the large plastic container labeled "coolant" or "antifreeze". The container should have markings on the side to indicate whether or not you have enough coolant, and if it's below the required level, you'll need to refill it! Bring in your vehicle to Rick Hendrick Chevy if you need your coolant replaced and we'll take care of it right away.

Check your heating & cooling:

Nobody wants to drive in a vehicle that's too hot or too cold. Malfunctioning heating and cooling units can make everyone in the vehicle irritated, making the drive an all around exhausting experience. Checking your heating and air conditioning is easy: if your vehicle doesn't heat up or cool down fast enough (or at all), it could be an issue with your system. Have your heating and cooling system inspected before you leave. We'll be happy to help you find an affordable solution!

Schedule a checkup:

If your vehicle is in need of any service, such as an oil change, tire rotation, or alignment, make sure to schedule a checkup before you head out. Being dedicated to routine auto maintenance is important in protecting the investment of your ride and extending its life. A vehicle that is in top shape will have a better chance of staying reliable and working efficiently.

Save yourself the trouble of breaking down on the road by remaining prepared this year. Make sure these components are in working condition to get your vehicle ready for your next road trip. Avoid the tow truck and ensure a safe ride to your destination by making sure your car performs its best. Brush up on our routine maintenance tips to double-check you've covered all the bases. If you're unsure whether or not your vehicle will be able to handle the road ahead, schedule an appointment with us and we'll inspect your vehicle before you go! Save on your service trip by checking out our current specials. No matter where your road trip takes you, we wish you smooth sailing on your journey!

Located conveniently at 1500 Savannah Highway in Charleston, Rick Hendrick Chevrolet is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, call us at (843) 628-7583 or schedule your appointment online!