Welcome to the Premier Auto Care Maintenance Blog! With the kids out of school and summer right around the corner, that means it's the perfect time for a road trip. Whether you’re heading out to the beach, the mountains, or visiting family, your car needs to be in tip-top shape to get you there safely. At Premier Auto Care, we are here to help you with all your car needs. Let’s dive into some easy steps to make sure your car is ready for the journey. 

1. Check the Oil 

The oil in your car is like the blood in your body. It keeps everything running smoothly. Before you hit the road, make sure your oil is at the right level. Here’s how: 

Park your car on a level surface. 

Turn off the engine and let it cool for a few minutes. 

Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, put it back in, then pull it out again. 

Look at the oil level. It should be between the "low" and "full" marks. 

If it’s low, you’ll need to add more oil. Check your car’s manual to see what type of oil is best for your car. 

2. Tires Matter 

Your tires are the only part of your car that touch the road, so it's important they need to be in good condition. 

Check Tire Pressure: Use a tire pressure gauge to make sure each tire has the right amount of air. You can find the recommended pressure in your car’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door. 

Tread Depth: The tread on your tires helps your car grip the road. Use a penny to check the tread. Put the penny in the tread with Lincoln’s head down. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tread is too worn, and you need new tires. 

Look for Damage: Check your tires for any cuts, punctures, or bulges. If you see any, get your tire fixed or replaced immediately by giving us a call to set up an appointment for you. 

3. Brakes 

Your brakes are super important for keeping you safe. Listen for any squeaking or grinding sounds when you brake. These noises can mean your brake pads are worn out. If your car pulls to one side when you brake, you might have a brake problem. It’s best to have your brakes checked by a professional if you notice any of these issues. 

4. Battery 

A dead battery can ruin your trip before it even starts. To check your battery: 

Look for any corrosion (white, powdery stuff) on the battery terminals. 

Make sure the battery cables are tight. 

If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested at Premier Auto Care to make sure it still holds a charge. 

5. Lights 

You need to see and be seen on the road. Check all your car’s lights: 

Headlights 

Taillights 

Brake lights 

Turn signals 

Hazard lights 

Ask a friend or family member to help you check them. Simply replace any bulbs that are burned out. 

6. Fluids 

Your car has a lot of different fluids that help it run smoothly. Check these fluids and top them off if needed: 

Coolant: Keeps your engine from overheating. 

Brake Fluid: Helps your brakes work properly. 

Transmission Fluid: Makes sure your car shifts gears smoothly. 

Windshield Washer Fluid: Helps you see clearly by keeping your windshield clean. 

7. Wiper Blades 

Good wiper blades are important, especially if you hit a rainstorm on your trip. If your blades leave streaks or don’t clear the windshield well, it’s time to replace them. 

8. Emergency Kit 

It’s always a good idea to be prepared for the unexpected. Pack an emergency kit with these items: 

First aid kit 

Flashlight with extra batteries 

Jumper cables 

Spare tire, jack, and lug wrench 

Basic tools (like screwdrivers and pliers) 

Water and snacks 

9. Air Conditioning 

You want to stay cool and comfortable, especially on a long drive. Make sure your air conditioning is working well. If it’s blowing warm air or not as cold as it should be, bring your car in, and we can check it out for you. 

10. Plan Your Route 

Finally, plan your route ahead of time. Make sure you know where you’re going and have a map or GPS. Let someone know your route and expected arrival time for added safety. 

Visit Premier Auto Care 

At Premier Auto Care, we are dedicated to making sure your car is ready for any adventure. We serve Titusville, Florida, and all the surrounding areas. Bring your car in to see us at 1501 S. Washington Ave., and we’ll help you get it road trip ready. Happy travels and drive safely! 

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your car is ready for the journey ahead. Enjoy your road trip and make lots of wonderful memories!