Going somewhere nice this summer? You don’t even need to travel outside the country; there are countless spots in New Mexico alone that are worth exploring. Summer hasn’t started yet so you still have time to rethink your plans. Besides, aren’t you tired of flying? A road trip might be a much better idea. Not only does traveling by car let you witness sceneries that you won’t see when you’re in a plane, but you also get to choose where and when to stop, especially if it’s your own car you’re driving.
However, a road trip is not without its risks and challenges. We all know long drives put a vehicle under so much stress, which may lead to a drove of problems. The engine might overheat, tires blow up, or you may run out of gas in the middle of nowhere. It takes a lot of preparation to avoid or get through any snags and make the most out of a road trip. Consider these tips from a car dealer in Albuquerque, NM on how to prepare your car for your summer road trip.
Adjust those brakes
You’re going to places you’ve never been to, which means you’ll be driving on unfamiliar roads and terrains. The last thing you want is to lose your brakes when you’re speeding toward a ditch or a curve and unable to instantly downshift to a lower gear. Well-maintained and correctly adjusted brakes allow you to adapt to different road conditions and avoid accidents. Safety is your top priority, so make this number 1 in your maintenance checklist.
Pump the tires
If you haven’t checked your tire pressure since winter, do it now. The cold does a lot of things, and one of these is deflating your tires, which makes it harder to roll even on a smooth road. Going on a long trip with deflated tires will cost you more gas than you need. Pump those tires to the right pressure. Don’t overdo it either as overinflated tires can burst or become hard to maneuver safely during an emergency.
Buy new wiper blades
Check your wipers for signs of wear. If they are starting to scratch your windshield or can no longer scrape off snow or rainwater adequately, it’s time to buy new wiper blades. Summers aren’t always sunny and dry in New Mexico. Too much heat often results in afternoon or evening showers, sometimes even thunderstorms. With brand new wipers, you can maintain the vision of the road regardless of the weather condition.
New oil alert
When was the last time you changed your car’s motor oil? If it’s more than six months ago, chances are your car’s engine is almost dried up, and that’s dangerous. All the moving parts, including the crankshafts, camshafts, and bearings may have been severely worn out. The worst part is oil-related damage may void your warranty. Change your car’s motor oil before hitting the road. Any car dealership in Albuquerque, NM would recommend an oil change every three months.
Getting ready for a road trip is hard work, a process you shouldn’t cheat. List down everything you think is necessary to prepare your vehicle for all the challenges that lie ahead. If you need more helpful tips, check out your Fiesta Volkswagen dealer in Albuquerque, NM.
