School’s out, the weather’s heating up, and adventure is calling. Whether you’re heading to a lake, a national park, or just taking the scenic route to a new destination, a summer road trip is the perfect way to unwind and explore. But before you throw your bags in the trunk and hit the gas, it’s important to prep your vehicle for the journey ahead.
A few quick maintenance checks can make all the difference between a carefree trip and one spent stranded on the roadside. Use these simple tips from Performance Tire & Auto Service in Burlington, WI to make sure your car is road trip ready.
Start with Your Tires
Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that actually touch the road—so their condition matters. Before heading out:
- Check your tire pressure (including the spare!)
- Inspect the tread depth
- Look for cracks or bulges in the sidewalls
- Watch for pulling or vibrations, which could indicate alignment or balance issues
Not sure what to look for? Our technicians can help inspect and rotate your tires so you’re driving safely.
Don’t Forget the Fluids
High temperatures can stress your engine, so checking your fluids is essential. Before your trip, top off or change the following:
- Motor oil
- Coolant
- Transmission fluid
- Brake fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
If it’s been a while since your last oil change, now’s the perfect time to schedule one. Keeping fluids clean and full helps your engine stay cool and your car running smoothly—especially on long drives.
Don’t Forget the Fluids
Here are a few more components you’ll want to check before hitting the road:
- Brakes: Worn pads or squeaky brakes are a sign it’s time for service.
- Wiper blades: Rainstorms happen—don’t get caught with streaky or squeaky blades.
- Battery: If your battery is more than 3 years old or slow to start, test it to avoid a dead car far from home.
Let our team inspect your vehicle and catch small problems before they turn into big breakdowns.
Pack an Emergency Kit
Even with the best preparation, things happen. Stay ready for the unexpected by packing a vehicle emergency kit that includes:
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Tow strap
- Drinking water and non-perishable snacks
- First-aid supplies
- Tire inflator or sealant
It doesn’t take up much space—but it can make a huge difference if you run into trouble.
Get Road Trip Ready
A little preventive care goes a long way in ensuring your summer road trip is fun, safe, and stress-free. At Performance Tire & Auto Service, we’ll help make sure your vehicle is in top shape so you can focus on making memories.
Schedule your pre-trip inspection today and travel with peace of mind.
