Preparing Your Car for a Summer Road Trip: Tips and Guidelines from Marino CJDR Service Technicians

Summer is just around the corner, and many of us are looking forward to hitting the road, exploring new places, and embarking on new adventures. As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, it’s the perfect time to embark on an epic summer road trip. But before embarking on that long-awaited summer road trip, it’s essential to ensure that your vehicle is ready for the journey ahead. At Marino Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, we understand the importance of a well-prepared vehicle, so we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you get your car road-trip ready!
Here are some tips and guidelines to help you prepare your car for a summer road trip.

1. Check and Rotate Your Tires

Your tires are your vehicle’s only contact with the road, and they play a vital role in ensuring a safe and comfortable ride. Before heading out on your summer road trip, it’s important to check the tire pressure and make sure it’s at the recommended level. You should also inspect the tires for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, bulges, or punctures. If your tires are worn out or damaged, it’s best to replace them before hitting the road. Find your car’s optimal PSI rating in the owner’s manual or on the sticker in the jamb of your driver’s side door. You should be checking tire pressure regularly and at the very least for every 1,000 miles as you travel. Schedule an appointment with our Service Department at https://www.marinochryslerjeepdodge.net/online-service-scheduler/.

2. Check Your Brakes

Your brakes are critical to your safety on the road, and they should be in top condition before you start your journey. You should have your brakes inspected by a qualified mechanic to ensure that the brake pads, rotors, and other components are in good condition. If your brakes are making unusual noises, or if you feel a pulsation or vibration when braking, it’s essential to have them checked and serviced. Schedule an appointment with our Service Department at https://www.marinochryslerjeepdodge.net/online-service-scheduler/.

3. Check Your Fluids and Filters

Your vehicle’s fluids and filters play a crucial role in maintaining its overall performance. Your car relies on various fluids to operate correctly, including engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. Check the engine oil levels and replace it if it’s been a while since your last oil change. Similarly, inspect the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid levels to ensure they are within the recommended range. Additionally, replace the air filter and cabin air filter if they’re dirty or clogged to improve engine performance and maintain fresh air inside the vehicle. Before starting your summer road trip, you should check all the fluids and top them up as needed. You should also have the fluids replaced if they are dirty or contaminated. Schedule an appointment with our Service Department at https://www.marinochryslerjeepdodge.net/online-service-scheduler/

4. Check Your Battery

There’s nothing worse than a dead battery on a road trip. Extreme temperatures can have a significant impact on battery performance, so it’s essential to have it tested before you hit the road. If your battery is more than three years old or shows signs of weakness, consider replacing it to avoid unexpected breakdowns during your adventure You should have your battery checked by a qualified mechanic to ensure that it’s holding a charge and that the connections are clean and tight.

5. Check Your Air Conditioning

The summer heat can be brutal, and you don’t want to be stuck in a hot car without air conditioning. Before starting your road trip, you should have your air conditioning system inspected and serviced by a qualified technician. They will check the refrigerant level, the compressor, and other components to ensure that your AC is in good working condition. Schedule an appointment with our service technicians with our Online Service Scheduler at https://www.marinochryslerjeepdodge.net/online-service-scheduler/.

You can test your car’s AC by turning it on for a few minutes and ensuring it blows cold air consistently. If you notice any issues, such as weak airflow or strange odors, have it inspected and repaired if necessary. A comfortable cabin temperature will enhance your driving experience and keep everyone happy throughout the journey.

6. Pack an Emergency Kit

Even with meticulous planning, unforeseen circumstances can arise. As a precaution, assemble an emergency kit to keep in your car. Include essential items such as a spare tire, jack, tire iron, jumper cables, flashlight, first aid supplies, emergency contact numbers, and a roadside assistance program’s details. Having these items readily available will give you peace of mind and ensure you’re prepared for any unexpected situations. Being prepared will give you peace of mind and ensure you can handle minor emergencies effectively.

7. Schedule a Comprehensive Maintenance Check

Before hitting the road, it’s crucial to have your car thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic. A professional inspection will identify any underlying issues or potential problems that need attention. Key areas to focus on include brakes, tires, fluids (engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid), battery, lights, and air conditioning. Addressing these concerns beforehand will minimize the chances of unexpected breakdowns and ensure your safety throughout the journey.

Preparing your car for a summer road trip is essential to ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable journey. By following these tips and guidelines, you can help prevent breakdowns, accidents, and other mishaps on the road.

Remember, safety should always be a priority, so don’t hesitate to consult professionals for any necessary repairs or maintenance tasks. Buckle up, hit the open road, and create lifelong memories on your summer adventure!

Is a summer road trip on your calendar? Our highly trained service technicians are happy to help prepare you and your car for the adventure ahead! Schedule a service appointment from the convenience of your own home with our Online Service Scheduler or give our friendly service technicians a call with any questions or concerns at 773-794-7811.