The kids are back in school and the long summer days we've enjoyed are starting to get shorter. Yet, as I write this blog post, it's a perfect 80 degrees in Boulder. For us here at The Shop Automotive, that's road trip weather.
Whether you're planning a quick, three-day trip or more of a cross-country trek, you want to be able to count on your vehicle. Here are some tips to ensure your car or truck gets the family from point A to point B safely and efficiently:
Top off necessary fluids
The last thing you want is for your vehicle to overheat and stall in the middle of nowhere. This is where radiator fluid comes into play. Also known as coolant or antifreeze, radiator fluid extracts heat from the engine and dissipates it through the radiator.
Don't just stop there, though. Next comes the brake fluid, which our local auto repair team recommends be flushed every 36,000 miles or so. If you allow your vehicle's brake fluid to be contaminated, then its ability to stop will be compromised to some extent.
We also wanted to discuss power steering fluid for a moment. This is what allows the wheel to easily turn at any speed. However, the more contaminated this fluid becomes, the less responsive your steering wheel will be.
Check the tires
Flat tires are never fun, but especially during a road trip. If you can't remember the last time you took your vehicle in for a tire rotation, then chances are it's overdue for one. Our car care center in Boulder advises tire rotations every 5,000 to 8,000 miles.
Don't think you can realistically depend on your vehicle's tires for this trip? Then replacement might be the only option. For the most part, tires last between 25,000 and 50,000 miles.
Get an oil change
We are often asked why oil changes are such an integral piece of auto maintenance. Here's the thing: Air filters eventually reach capacity and become clogged. Over time, a clogged air filter can negatively impact engine performance and fuel economy.
So often does your car or truck require an oil change? Most manufacturers recommend one every three months or 3,000 miles (whichever comes first). Please don't hesitate to contact our auto shop if you have any questions about oil changes or engine auto maintenance in general.
Expert Automotive Repair Near Me
Now that you know how to get your vehicle road trip ready, the next step is finding the right auto repair shop. Why make this more difficult than it should be? The Shop Automotive is setting the new standard for car care in Boulder.
At The Shop Automotive, we go above and beyond to treat our customers like family. Never will we try to upsell you on unnecessary products and/or services.
You can trust us to make sure your car or truck is fully prepared to handle that next road trip. Call now or stop by today.