You’re finally getting a family vacation! Don’t let preventable vehicle troubles stop you from having the best trip. Bring your vehicle into Nielsen Auto Care to make sure your ride is in it’s best shape before traveling far distances. Here are some common problems that could ruin the Vacation:
- Dead Batteries
You don’t want your car dying on you! A weak or dead battery is one of the leading causes of a roadside breakdown. The excessive heat during this summer season can shorten battery life and accelerate internal corrosion. A failing battery might show slow engine cranking, dim headlights, electrical issues, or the need for frequent jump starts. A quick battery inspection can help prevent potential problems before you’re stranded on the side of the road!
- Flat tires
Did you know tire pressure increases in hot weather? A tire blowout isn’t just inconvenient but also dangerous. Long highway drives combined with hot pavement will put stress on tires that are already worn, underinflated, or damaged. Before a long roadtrip, a tire inspection will help ensure your tires have the correct pressure and even wear.
- Brake Failures
Brake issues are common, but most importantly they can quickly lead to serious safety hazards, especially during a long distance road trip. Your brakes need to be ready for the unexpected. Warning signs of weak brakes include squeaking or grinding noises, vibrations when braking, a soft brake pedal, or longer stopping distances. Ignoring these brake issues can only lead to more expensive repairs involving your rotors and calipers.
- Engine Overheating
In the blazing summer heat, especially on pavement, an overheating engine is extremely common. When temperatures rise, your engine relies heavily on coolant, the radiator, hoses, and other cooling components to maintain safe operating temperatures. Signs of cooling system trouble include rising temperatures, gauges, coolant leaks, and steam from under the hood. Ignoring an overheating engine can lead to costly repairs in the long run. Get your cooling system inspected to prevent a vacation-ending breakdown!
- AC Failure
The worst feeling is driving in a hot car during the hot summer on a long drive! Make yourself comfortable and get your AC system checked before you travel. Yes, an AC problem may not leave you stranded, but you’ll be getting many complaints from the backseat. If your air conditioning isn’t blowing cold air, has weak airflow, or produces strange odors, it might be time for service.
Roadside breakdowns happen without any warning. Taking the time to inspect your battery, tires, brakes, cooling system, and air conditioning can help ensure your summer vacation starts and ends without any unexpected car trouble.
At Nielsen Auto Care, now is the perfect time to get a pre-trip vehicle inspection using our Road Trip Special! Our team will help make sure your vehicle is prepared for the miles ahead, giving you confidence every time you get behind the wheel!
How Road-Trip Ready Is Your Vehicle?
Give yourself 1 point for each:
☐ Oil changed within the last 5,000 miles
☐ Tires properly inflated
☐ Battery tested within the last year
☐ Brakes inspected recently
☐ Coolant levels checked
☐ AC blowing cold air
5-6 Points: You’re road trip ready.
3-4 Points: Consider a pre-trip inspection.
0-2 Points: Schedule service before you leave.