Are you planning to hit the open road and explore the unknown with your family this spring or summer? Ensuring your vehicle is in tip-top shape guarantees a smoother trip and can help safeguard your family. At Joe’s Service Department, we understand that the key to a memorable road trip is in the preparation, and that starts with your vehicle. From tire checks to a clean interior to a car tune-up, we’ve gathered expert advice and six car care tips to make your road trip from Indianapolis unforgettable.
1. Keep up With Routine Maintenance
Regular maintenance is the backbone of a healthy vehicle. Before setting out, check that your tires are properly inflated—remember that temperature changes could impact your tire pressure. Additionally, it’s time to replace those wiper blades if they’ve been leaving streaks on your windshield and ensure your windshield wiper fluid is topped up. A corroded battery terminal is a no-go; it should be cleaned off to avoid any starting issues. Lastly, take note of any unusual noises or movements from your car since these could be signs of a bigger problem.
2. Fluid Levels Check
The various fluids in your vehicle are its lifeline. Before you start your adventure, make sure to check the engine oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid levels. If you find these levels to be below the recommended threshold, it’s wise to visit a trusted auto mechanic, like our team at Joe’s Service Department, to top them up.
3. Address Existing Vehicle Issues
A check engine light can dampen your road trip before it even begins. Before you embark on your journey, address any issues with your vehicle. Whether it’s that check engine light or something else you’ve noticed that needs repair, bring it to Joe’s Service Department. Our experts are here to ensure your vehicle is road trip ready.
4. The Importance of an Oil Change
A long journey can strain your vehicle, making an oil change absolutely essential, especially if you’re nearing your scheduled maintenance date. Fresh oil ensures your engine runs smoothly, reducing the risk of breakdowns mid-trip.
5. Schedule a Comprehensive Car Tune-up
Our comprehensive tune-up service from Joe’s Service Department addresses several critical areas in one go. Based on your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations, our tune-ups include spark plug check and replacement, air filter replacement, inspection and installation of brake pads and rotors, tire rotation, and an oil and oil filter change. We also perform a thorough inspection and replacement of fluids to keep your car in pristine condition for your journey. If you need us to check your vehicle’s suspension system or other parts, we can help with that, too.
6. Cleanliness is Next to Roadworthiness
Traveling in a clean car gives you a more enjoyable experience. Make sure the interior and exterior of your vehicle are spick and span. A clean windshield and windows improve visibility, while a tidy interior makes for a more comfortable ride. Your future self will thank you.
Prepping your vehicle for a road trip might seem daunting, but with these tips and the professional support from Joe’s Service Department, you’ll be road-ready in no time. Remember, a good tune-up not only prepares your vehicle for the journey but can also give you one less thing to worry about so you can focus on making memories.
Is your car ready for a road trip? If you’re in the Indianapolis area, contact Joe’s Service Department at (317) 405-8456 for all your pre-road trip car tune-up needs.
