Pre-Trip Checklist: Brakes, Fluids, Belts

Summertime driving conditions, especially hot temperatures and winding roads, can test the limits of a vehicle, especially its brake system.

Your car’s brakes can take a hit whether driving through winding mountain roads, towing a trailer, stop-and-go city driving, or breaking for wildlife. Make sure worn-out brakes don’t put a stop to your summer road trip plans with these helpful tips.

• Beware of signs that your vehicle’s brake system needs some attention. Do you hear squeals or feel vibrations when applying the brakes? Does the brake pedal feel spongy or drop to the floor when braking? If yes, then it’s time to bring your car in to get your brakes checked.
• Ask your advisor if it’s time for fluid brake replacement. Old, contaminated fluid needs to be replaced periodically. See the owner’s vehicle manual guidelines.
• Do not ignore warning lights on the dashboard or messages on your display screen. They must be addressed immediately to prevent possible brake system failure.
• Make a habit of getting an inspection of your vehicle brake system during every oil change or tire rotation (about every 5,000-7,000 miles). Routine maintenance of brake pads, rotors, calipers, fluid, and hoses is critical to prevent excessive wear from escalating into an expensive repair.

June driving safety maintenance reminders

Here’s our list of critical items to check before your next road trip. Even if your vehicle is not due for an oil change or routine maintenance, the following suggestions can give you peace of mind when you head out of town:

1. Have a mechanic inspect your car’s cooling system before going on the road this summer to identify any problems that could become an expensive repair far from home.
2. Check belt tension and inspect for cracks in serpentine drive belts. A broken belt can cause your engine to overheat and leave you stranded.
3. Inspect coolant levels. A low level of radiator solution is one of the most common causes of inefficient climate control systems. The solution diminishes over time through evaporation, especially from summer weather.
4. Ask about a coolant flush to replace the worn-out coolant/antifreeze solution. Heat and time break down the chemicals. The system needs to be cleaned and refilled periodically to maintain performance and prolong the life of parts.
5. Inspect for cracked, hardened wiper blades. Don’t forget to look back and inspect the rear wiper blades as well.
6. Consider replacing wiper fluid with solutions designed to remove “bug goo.” Late spring and early summer are primetime for flying insects hitting your car’s windshield.
7. Replace cabin air filters to reduce allergens. Regular replacement of cabin air filters is an inexpensive way to help keep your vehicle healthy and clean.
8. Check your tires and air pressure, which can fluctuate with the change of seasons and rising temperatures. Inspect tires for bulges or tears that may have occurred from hitting a pothole.
9. Take a peek at the spare tire. Tires experts suggest replacing spare tires every 7 - 10 years or if you see signs of stress bulges, or cracks. If you have a full-size spare, make sure it is properly inflated as well.
10. Always get a battery charge test from your local mechanic. A dead battery can creep up on you and because batteries commonly fail during fluctuations in temperatures, it’s a good idea to get it tested before hitting the road.