Your 2025 Summer Road Trip Checklist
No one wants to be cruising on a road trip and find out the hard way that their car has a problem. Save yourself the headache and stress by confirming that your vehicle is up to date with safety car standards before taking off on any road adventure. Vehicle up-keep is essential in promising not only a safe and secure ride, but especially in ensuring you arrive at your final destination stress free. Your car should be well prepared and ready to take on anything that the road may throw its way during your journey. Before taking off on your next road adventure, double check that your car has everything it needs by using this checklist here:
Check tires:
Your tires are a crucial part of what keeps your vehicle rolling! Check the integrity of your tires and make sure they are intact and approved for the road. You should also check your tire pressure and confirm that it is up to par with the manufacturer’s recommended inflation level. Improper tire regulation can lead to various driving risks and dangers, which no one wants to encompass, (AAA).
Refill vehicle’s fluids:
Just like us humans, your car needs to stay properly hydrated too! Our vehicle’s fluid keeps everything running smoothly, internally. You should check on your vehicle’s fluids and make sure they are fully replenished for your long trip, (Miranda). You should focus mostly on these main six:
Brake fluid:
Your brakes play an essential role in helping control your motor vehicle. This key pedal is powered and regulated by the fluid supplied to it. When your brake fluid severely ages or expires, its productivity decreases and does not regulate your effectively.
Engine Oil:
Acting like the blood in our body’s, the oil in your engine helps internal movements within your car running smoothly. With low or insufficient oil levels, internal engine parts struggle to move without proper lubrication- leading to heat exhaustion and/or potential engine failure, (“10 Common Reasons”)
Power Steering fluid:
Acting like the head of a ship, your steering wheel helps guide the movement of your vehicle. The fluid fed to your steering wheel allows for high mobility and easy motion for your convenience. Improper fluid levels can result in rigid or delayed steering reactions.
Engine Coolant:
With your vehicle running 24/7 it’s easy for it to overheat! In both extreme hot or cold conditions, engine coolant fluid helps maintain the temperature of your vehicle, (preventing any temperature caused car mishaps).
Windshield washer fluid:
This type of fluid is a driver’s best friend when it comes to a clean windshield. Whether it’s a stubborn stain or a pesky bug on your windshield, washer fluid never fails to get the job done. Nothing is more important than driving with a clear view of the road and what’s ahead. Without sufficient washer fluid, your windshield can quickly become messy and difficult to see.
Transmission fluid:
Your transmission plays a key role in the shifting of gears when driving. Similar to the oil that powers your engine, this fluid regulates the transition of your gears by lubricating moving components. Lack of transmission fluid can lead to difficulties shifting gears and potential transmission failure.
Check your car battery:
The last thing you want is to have your car battery die randomly on your roadtrip. Before getting on the road, stop by an automotive store that can check your battery and ensure it is ready for your journey!
Test your brakes:
Your brakes are one of the most important components of your motor vehicle. It is necessary to double check that they are functioning properly and effectively for your travels.
Get a car wash:
Don’t start off your trip with a messy or dirty car! Before beginning your drive, swing by one of our Wash Shop’s and say goodbye to dirt and grime and hello to a shiny and clear car. Starting off your adventure with a clean windshield and exterior will help prevent stains from accumulating on your car that may be difficult to scrub off afterward. Start off your journey right by getting a car wash that will refresh your vehicle.
Schedule a vehicle inspection:
Even after completing the other items on this checklist, it is a good idea to have your vehicle inspected by an automotive professional. They will be able to properly check your vehicle and ensure it is road ready! Plan a service visit today by clicking this link here.
We hope this checklist serves you well for your next road trip!
Layla Hafez
