Whether you are taking the kids for a day trip to the zoo or loading your SUV to visit a national park, these simple tips will keep you driving happy.
Is your car ready for the road?
Simple Tips to get you ready for the road
- Start with walking around your car to inspect the tires. Check for cracks or other damage to the sidewalls, be sure the tires are inflated to the pressure indicated on your door panel (not the one stamped into the rubber on the tire), and be sure that you have enough tread to remain safe in all driving conditions, especially wet ones.
An easy trick on checking your tread is to use a quarter, placing it upside down in the groove between your tire treads. The rubber on each side should be tall enough to cover the top of George’s fluffy powdered wig. That will give you at least 4/32 of an inch of tread which is considered safe in wet conditions.
- Test all your lights for safety’s sake. A malfunctioning turn signal or brake light can lead to an accident. It can also lead to an unwanted interruption in your trip if a policeman notices.
- Next pop the hood and give everything a common sense look over. Are any of the rubber hoses or belts looking cracked, bulged or worn? Overheating and failure to cooling system components are the number 1 reason motorists are stranded, so pay particular attention to this system including the condition of the coolant. Include your wiper blades as unfamiliar roads are even more dangerous when you cannot see well.
- Change your oil if its time or even if it will be soon. Stopping for an oil change on the road is inconvenient – you will have much more fun things to do – it is also too tempting to go over the mileage recommendation while you are out having a good time. Fresh oil runs cooler and protects your engine better, so it’s a great way to start your trip.
- Prepare an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, triangle hazard reflectors or flares, some basic first aid supplies and some cash in small bills and change. Check your vehicle’s jack to be sure all the pieces are there and that the lug wrench fits your current wheels sometimes vehicles with upgraded tires and wheels don’t match their original equipment tools anymore.
- Finally, review your paperwork. Keep a copy of your insurance card, Vehicle Identification Number, State License Number, Insurance Policy Number and agent’s contact information in both your glove box and your wallet.
Now…it is time to hit the road! Have a safe and exciting trip!
The staff at Beckwith’s Car Care is always happy to perform a complimentary trip check for you.
Get ready for Summer with a Free Digital Trip Check.
We will inspect your vehicle for safety and dependability.
You will receive a link by text with all of your vehicle’s information including photos and video.
The information will remain available to you for future reference. It is a great way to stay on top of your vehicle’s maintenance and repair needs.
It is our goal for you to have the peace of mind that comes with driving a safe and dependable vehicle.
1919 FM 1960 Bypass Rd East
Humble, TX 77338
281-540-2000
With 35 years in the automotive industry, her award-winning shop Beckwith’s Car Care in Humble, Texas sets the bar high in both customer service and technical expertise. You can catch Lynn live every Saturday morning from 10am to Noon on Auto Pros Radio KSEV 700 AM
www.ThatCarLady.com www.AutoProsRadio.com 281-540-2000
