With all the things you juggle going into the holidays, it is easy to forget to make sure your car is ready for holiday travel. However, nothing can ruin holiday plans like getting stranded on the side of the road when all the car repair businesses are closed. To make sure your plans aren’t derailed, get your car in good shape before its too late.
Brakes
If you’ve heard a squeal when you slow for a traffic light, or you’ve noticed that it feels like you are braking on a bumpy road, it’s time to get your brakes serviced. Many places can check your brake system. Simply look for the best brake service near me on your phone and make an appointment. Your safety and that of others are at stake.
Tires
The tread on your tires may be more important than you know. It allows tires to grip the road surface, and it channels water away to prevent hydroplaning. Tires with only 50% of their tread pose a serious risk when driven in wet or snowy conditions. According to Consumer Reports, tires should go for 25,000 to 40,000 miles before their tread reaches the halfway point. Make a point of noting the mileage when you get new tires and make a habit of getting them checked before you get close to 25,000 miles.
Oil
Your engine’s oil is vital for keeping all the moving parts cool and friction-free. It allows your car to run more efficiently and prevents unnecessary wear and tear on the moving parts. When the oil isn’t changed regularly, it can collect dirt and sludge that prevents the oil from properly lubricating the engine. Luckily, oil maintenance is relatively inexpensive to do every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Make sure to check the levels before you leave, even if it isn’t time for an oil change yet to be safe.
Windshield Wipers
You may not give your windshield wipers much thought until you find that you can’t see the road in a rainstorm. Keeping the water cleared off the windshield is critical to keep the driver’s field of vision clear. It only takes a couple of seconds of impaired visibility to cause an accident. Have your local garage check your wipers before you hit the road.
Antifreeze
In cold weather, antifreeze keeps the water in your engine from freezing. However, you may not know that it also acts as a coolant that keeps water from overheating. Antifreeze also has other protective benefits like preventing scale buildup. It is very little investment in time or money that could save you a lot of money.
