Community Corner

Going on a Trip? Make Sure Your Car Is up to Par

A few tips to make sure you don't end up waiting on the side of the road for a tow truck.

The weekend is finally upon us, and it's time to hit the road and have  some fun.

To make sure you don't end up waiting on the side of the road for a tow truck, the Automobile Club of Southern of Southern California is reminding drivers how to ensure that your car takes you on a safe trip without clunking out in the heat.

Check the tires: Before you hit the road, be sure to check tires for uneven wear or excessive tread wear, and make sure all tires, including the spare, are properly inflated. Remember to inflate tires to recommended pressure, and don't forget that under-inflated tires are a safety hazard.

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Battery: Test or replace old batteries because high temperatures can compromise them. Be sure to check the water level of batteries with removable cell caps. If the battery is more than 3 years old, have it tested during each maintenance service, and if it's more than 5 years old, consider replacing it due to age.

Engine oil: Remember to check the level and condition of engine oil before you hit the road. When driving in temperatures ranging from 90 to 100-plus degrees, or when towing a heavy trailer, consider switching to heavier motor oil. Consult the owner's manual's "severe driving conditions" section for recommendations on oil.

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Cooling system: Consult your vehicle owner's manual to ensure that the mixture of water and coolant is the mixture that's specified. Coolant should also be flushed and changed as recommended by the vehicle maintenance schedule.

Engine fluids: Check the transmission fluid for the correct level, and make sure it doesn't smell burned or look dirty, since heat can break down the fluid over time. This is especially important for vehicles that are used for towing. Check the owner's manual for the right type of transmission fluid to use and the proper interval for service and replacement. Inspect power-steering fluid for proper level and condition. Low power-steering fluid can cause damage to the power-steering system, and dirty and/or burned power-steering fluid can lead to premature power-steering failure. Inspect brake fluid for proper level and condition. Low brake fluid could indicate excessive brake wear or fluid leak. Dirty brake fluid that is dark-colored like coffee, indicates contamination or moisture in the brake fluid. 

Air conditioning: If the air in your car isn't as cool as it used to be, take it to a certified technician and have the system checked out. 

Belts and hoses: If they are worn, cracked, blistered, brittle or too soft, they should be carefully checked. Those that are more than 7 years or 75,000 miles old should be looked at as candidates to be replaced as a safety precaution due to age and mileage. 

Windshield wipers: Be sure your vehicle has fresh blades and windshield washer fluid. Both will help to remove road dirt and insects from your windshield. Remember to use pre-mixed fluid and not water from a garden hose. The pre-mixed fluid contains ingredients that won't harm exterior vehicle paint.

Some other no-brainers for a smooth trip out of town include keeping cash in your wallet for last-minute emergencies, filling up your gas tank, charging your cell phone and remembering to stock up on plenty of water. Don't forget! An emergency and basic tool kits should always be packed alongside the luggage.


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