Prepping for a Summer Road Trip? Here’s What You Need

May 13, 2022

Every summer, countless people look to their friends and family and say, “let’s go on a road trip!” It’s part a rite of passage and part something fun to do during the warm summer months when going to the same old beach doesn’t seem like enough of a vacation. Deciding where to go for your road trip is only a small part of the battle — the larger portion consists of ensuring you have everything you need to be packed and that your car is ready for the trip.

But how do you maximize your car’s available space and ensure that your car stands ready to put on the serious mileage you’re aiming for this summer? Our comprehensive checklist can prepare you for every possibility and let you know what warning signs you should look for in your car!

Know How Much Space Your Car Can Use

How you pack your car for your summer road trip is almost as important as the car itself. Whether it’s a car you’ve had for years or a more recent addition after you went through the vehicle upgrade process, you need to know how much you can fit. Understanding how much space you have for the essentials and how much room you have to comfortably fit your fellow road trippers will make your experience more comfortable.

If you have a smaller compact car as opposed to an SUV, you’re going to pack it differently to make up for the difference in cargo space. Additionally, you want to ensure your passengers have enough room where they won’t feel claustrophobic and scrunched.

Time to Inspect Your Car

Getting to and from your intended destination requires your car to be in good enough condition to make the trip safely. If you haven’t had your vehicle inspected recently, there are some basic areas you can check yourself before bringing your car to the Peruzzi Nissan service center for a more in-depth look. If you recently participated in a trade-in your vehicle program, get your new vehicle inspected before your upcoming trip to ensure everything is running smoothly.

Checking Your Tires

Most drivers only give their tires a second thought after their yearly inspection or when the tires blow on the road, and they need to call AAA. However, you do not have to remain at the mercy of an unpredictable blowout or other tire issues during the middle of your summer road trip.

Observing each of your tires for visible signs of damage can help you quickly identify problems before they worsen. Additionally, checking your tire pressure at your local gas station can help refill your tire’s air pressure to the manufacturer’s recommended levels.

Pay Attention to Your Brakes

Your car’s braking system remains one of the most crucial parts of ensuring you and your passengers’ safety on a lengthy road trip. You need your brakes to respond quickly to the situation around you and help you avoid dangerous situations. If you hear grinding noises or feel excessive vibrations when applying the brakes, you should immediately get them professionally inspected.

A thorough inspection can check your brakes for any fluid leaks and make sure the brake pads aren’t worn down while also checking the rotors, shoes, and drums for signs of wear and tear. Your local service center can make the necessary repairs or find the replacement parts you need before you start out on the road.

Test Your Car’s Battery

Most drivers take their car battery for granted. A good car battery can power their car for years without fail, and the majority of the time, they don’t think about it until their battery dies unexpectedly. Instead of having your battery fail during the road trip, have it tested by the professionals before the start of your journey. You can check the remaining capacity and determine if you need a replacement battery before your upcoming trip.

Check Your Car’s Fluids

With coolant levels, engine oil, brake, transmission, and power steering fluids playing a vital role in your vehicle’s performance, checking that these levels are within acceptable levels is essential before your trip. You can check these levels yourself or have your car brought in to be inspected by experienced professionals — whichever way you decide; your fluid levels will get the attention they deserve.

Pack — or Replenish — an Emergency Kit

Whether you’re driving through a large state park, down a Pacific Coast highway, or going through local Pennsylvania small towns, having an emergency kit in your car can save you in a pinch. With flashlights, fresh batteries, first aid, water, and copious amounts of snacks, you can rest assured that you’ll have what you need in a pinch while waiting for help to arrive on the scene.

Come to Peruzzi Nissan for Your New Car and Inspection Needs!

Before your next road trip, you need to ensure your car is ready. Whether you’re looking to trade your existing vehicle in for an upgrade or you want to get it inspected before you hit the road, Peruzzi Nissan has you covered! Our full-service center can inspect your vehicle and get you any replacement parts you need quickly before you’re supposed to head out on the road. Contact us to schedule your next car repair appointment or visit our showroom today!