With Memorial Day now in the rearview, the allure of the summer road trip is palpable. Is your summer travel itinerary finalized? Taking a moment to run through your checklist, have you: had your vacation days approved? Packed your bags? Double-checked your Airbnb reservations? Great! All that's left to tend to is the single most important component to your trip: your trusty vehicle.
Your road trip only goes as far as your car, truck, or SUV can take you. The Bush Auto Group is here to help maximize your vehicle's potential, ensuring seamless travels this summer. Filling up the fuel tank is just step one; here are five more actions you can take to prepare your car for a memorable trip.
Make Your Car Habitable
During your trip, your vehicle transforms into your home away from home. Regardless of lodging along the way, much of your trip will be spent inside your car. Just as you keep your home clean, your car should be devoid of dust and clutter before embarking. (Maintaining that neatness throughout your trip is a noble side-mission.)
Prior to setting off, clean your car at any of our local car washes, such as the Lionville Express Car Wash in Exton. Take advantage of their vacuuming services to thoroughly clear floor mats and upholstery. Get as much dirt out as you can, because it won't stay that way long once the kids hop in.
Keep Your Tires Inflated
Low tire pressure is a dual threat for motorists: it makes your tire more susceptible to damage, and also diminishes fuel efficiency. When you're on an extended drive, all those underserved miles add up. Check your tire pressure before your trip, blowing them up to the recommended PSI level (found on a sticker near the driver's door). Ideally, check your tire pressure every 1,000 miles (and rotate your tires every 5,000 miles, or at six-month intervals).
If you face persistent issues with tire pressure or if your tires are noticeably worn, it may be time to invest in a new set. Fortunately, our comprehensive online Parts Department can help you find the perfect set of tires for your vehicle, as well as anything else your ride requires.
Hydrate Your Vehicle
Just as you'd take along a water bottle for your summer road journeys, ensure the six essential fluids in your car are at optimal levels. Unless you're far from your usual 7,500 – 10,000-mile oil change schedule, have your oil changed prior to departing. Verify that your transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and brake fluid are adequately filled.
To maintain maximum comfort throughout your journey, keep your coolant and windshield fluid levels high. Low coolant affects the air conditioning system, leading to weaker air flow, decreased cooling efficiency, and discomfort for all. You'll appreciate the extra windshield fluid when your windshield becomes compromised by countless smeared insect bodies and you're miles away from the closest gas station.
Prepare Your Playlist Before Leaving
Spring has already gifted us some eclectic material for a road trip playlist. Whether you're still dissecting recent epics from Beyonce and Taylor Swift or catching up on the Kendrick-Drake beef, pop music has been anything but boring lately. Regardless of your musical tastes, try to solidify your music selection before you hit the road. Long journeys can lead to complacent, careless behavior, and the moment your phone distracts you could abruptly end your summer plans.
Rely on the Bush Auto Group for Your Summer Maintenance
If your summer escapade is approaching and you're unsure about your vehicle's preparedness, it never hurts to seek a professional opinion. Our Service Department's dedicated team is prepared to address any tasks remaining on your maintenance checklist. From routine tasks such as oil changes to heavy-duty maintenance like transmission replacement, we'll handle jobs of all sizes. This summer, Bush Auto Group is committed to keeping you safely on the road throughout your travels, to whatever grand destinations lie in wait.
