Auto Tune-Up Solutions Before Going Out on a Trip

When you do get stranded in the middle of nowhere with car problems like broken brakes, it will definitely ruin your plans. The best way to prepare your vehicle for a road trip is by bringing it to an auto shop for a full car tune-up. This prevents possible breakdowns while on the road and makes your summer getaway go as smoothly as possible. Here are essential things to look out for when you get an auto tune-up.

• Inspect Suspension, Brakes, and Tires
  Any loose steering and suspension components can ruin your driving experience on a road trip. Broken struts and shocks or worn-out bushings and mounts can lead to more problems down the line, so take them to a suspension expert to prevent any issues from arising.

  Both brakes and tires are expendable parts of a car, so to avoid having to look for replacements while on vacation, make sure yours are in perfect working order. Check your brakes if they still stop on a dime and your tires if they have started to show cracks. Don’t forget to check your spare tire, too—even when unused, these can dry rot due to exposure to the elements.

• Replenish Used Vehicle Fluids
  One of the most important steps is to replace the used-up fluids of your car. Coolant, engine oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid are all vital in making your vehicle run smoothly and properly. Check your brake fluid’s state to know if it has dirt and air bubbles, which means it needs a bleed. Engine oil and coolant should also be inspected to ensure it’s still at the right amount.

  Make sure that the reservoirs are also clean and free of debris. Don’t forget the engine coolant tank, as any corrosion on it may be caused by the coolant turning acidic. Lastly, windshield washing fluid should also be topped up to prevent it from running out when needed.

• Check the Air Conditioning Unit
  It’s always a good idea to check your car’s AC unit as the hot summer will push its limits. You should pay more attention to the compressor and the ducting, as these are usually the first to fail. To further help you evaluate its condition, ask yourself these questions to know if you need your vehicle’s AC repaired:

  – Does it blow air as strong and cold as it ought to?
  – Are the hoses, compressor, or Schrader valve free from any leaks that could drain the coolant?

For any auto body repair or frame alignment problems, feel free to reach out to Touch of Color in Louisville, KY. They are a professional auto collision and repair facility that handles any car body issues.