July 11 2023,
A summer road trip is an excellent way to enjoy the spectacular sights and scenery that Canada has to offer, but your relaxing journey could become stressful if your vehicle stops working as it should. We want you to make the most of the warm weather driving season, so we’ve put together this helpful guide to help you prepare your ride to deliver a safe and enjoyable trip.
1) Check Your Tires
Tires have a huge impact not only on your vehicle's safety but also on how pleasant it is to drive. All tires, including the spare, should begin a long road trip in good condition so they will last the journey without any trouble.
Before you leave, be sure to check your tires for any signs of wear like balding, bulges, or cracks, and ensure that the tread depth will allow them to handle wet roads in sudden summer storms. If you're in any doubt, have the tires checked by a qualified technician to put your mind at ease. In addition, ensure the tires are all inflated to their correct levels prior to your trip, as low pressure makes handling less reliable and increases fuel consumption.
2) Air Conditioning
A summer road trip can put your vehicle’s air conditioning under a lot of strain, particularly if you're stuck in heavy traffic on a hot day. To identify any issues in advance, turn on the vehicle while safely parked, then listen for any strange noises, check for any unusual smells, and make sure that chilled air is being sent into the cabin within a reasonable amount of time.
If anything seems wrong, there could be a mechanical problem, or the refrigerant levels could be low. In either case, arranging an inspection is sensible–you don’t want to find yourself without climate control in soaring temperatures!
3) Fluid Levels and Cooling
Be sure to check oil, coolant, and brake fluids before starting on a summer trip–low levels of any of the three can cause serious problems in the summer heat. If you’re unsure what to do, a technician can check and replace all three quickly and easily. Gain peace of mind by booking a service appointment at any of our franchised dealerships.
4) Hoses, Belts, and Connectors
Pop open the hood and quickly examine the visible plastic parts underneath, including belts, hoses, and connectors. If any show signs of fraying or cracking, replace them quickly to save yourself money, time, and stress.
5) Windshield and Wipers
Visibility is essential at any time of year, including long, dusty summer journeys. Before you leave the driveway, make sure that your windshield is clean and in good condition, with no scratches or chips. Also, check that the wiper blades are reliably removing water and debris from the windshield without leaving heavy streaks behind, and replace them if they aren’t performing perfectly.
These tasks are relatively simple to perform at home, but nothing beats the confidence you get from having a professional look after your vehicle. Our teams of experts are ready to help make this summer memorable for all the right reasons, so be sure to book a service appointment at your local Dilawri dealership and enjoy worry-free summer road trip adventures.
