5 Steps to prepare your car for a summer road trip
Summer is a great time of the year to take a road trip. The sun is shining, the days are longer and your chances of having good weather while on the road are pretty good. Before you hop in the car and hit the road, it's a good idea to give your car a check-up to make sure you, your friends, and loved ones are all safe and sound.
Here are five ways to prepare your car for a summer road trip:
Change your oil
If you're heading out on the highway, it's a good idea to change your oil. This ensures your car engine is clean for the long kilometers ahead. An oil change normally costs between $25 and $45. You can take your car to the dealer (which is a bit pricier), to a trusted mechanic, or to a service store like Canadian Tire.
Check your tire pressure
If you still have those winter tires on, it's time to change them. Put on your summer tires or four seasons and don't forget to check the tire pressure before you leave. If your car squeaks on turns or when slowing down your pressure may be low.
You don't want to leave on a summer road trip with low tire pressure because it can lead to higher gas consumption, or a blowout, which can cause an accident. It's much better to take a few minutes and check the tire pressure (and add more air as needed) before you leave.
Double-check your auto insurance policy
Before getting on the road double-check your insurance policy to make sure it's still valid. If your insurance is expired, now is the time to shop around and find the best car insurance rates.
When it comes to buying insurance, the best policy is to be open and honest with your insurance company. That way you ensure you're buying the exact coverage you need without overpaying for it.
Sign up for roadside assistance
Some car insurance policies offer roadside assistance and some dealers offer roadside assistance as an additional feature when you purchase a new car. If you don't have roadside assistance, it's a good idea to look for the service with companies such as CAA.
The last thing you want to do is run out of gas, lock your keys in the car or have a mechanical malfunction during a road trip. Roadside assistance will help you get to safety and get your car repaired so you can get back on the road.
Get your brakes checked
Can you imagine driving along the highway at 100 kilometers per hour and not being able to stop? That would definitely put a damper on your summer road trip. While you're at the mechanic getting your oil changed and tire pressure checked, have them check your breaks.
It's always better to be safe rather than sorry when you're headed out on a road trip. Your mechanic can check the breaks just to be safe because we know that the harsh road conditions including ice, salt and slush can be tough on our cars.
As you prepare your car for your summer road trip, remember that a little money up front now can save hundreds of dollar later.