Get Ready to Hit the Road This Summer

You’ve been stuck inside all winter and now you’re ready to hit the open road. Whether it’s an epic trek across the country or a destination closer to home, don’t hit the gas pedal until you’ve maxed out the performance of your truck, JEEP or SUV. 

Follow our quick maintenance checklist to help you get the most out of your road adventures. Keep in mind that if your ride is older and hard driven you should perform additional visual checks, servicing and parts replacements. 

Don’t let the fun of cruising down the road take a back seat to unexpected failures and repairs.  

Basic Maintenance Checklist

• Car battery

Check your vehicle’s battery. If you detect corrosion, disconnect it and clean the connectors with a wire brush. If you’re unfamiliar with how to check and clean a car battery, let a mechanic do it for you. A good rule for batteries that are older than two years is to check them once a year.

• Belts and hoses

Get your belts and hoses inspected to determine if they are frayed or cracked. This is important for electrical, power steering and cooling system functionality. Belts should also be tightly installed and secured. Also, get your hoses checked for leaks or drips. Consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual for recommended belt and hose service intervals.

• Fluids and filters

Check the vehicle’s engine oil, power steering and transmission fluids and windshield washer fluid. If needed, top them off before heading down the highway. If your ride is close to needing its next oil change, get it done before you leave. 

Be sure to fill the coolant tank to the manufacturer’s recommended level. Keep in mind that coolant can become acidic over time, so have the coolant tank checked for corrosion to avoid damage to the radiator or hoses. 

Check the engine air filter for dust and debris that can get into the car engine. A dirty filter can impact the vehicle’s acceleration performance.

• Lights and electrical 

Check all interior and exterior lights and replace burned-out bulbs, if necessary. Also, if you’re looking for a road trip free of aggravation, make sure your windshield wipers aren’t leaving streaks. A good rule of thumb is to replace them every six months. Also, check the vehicle horn and air conditioning system so you can stay cool on the road. 

• Brakes

Check your brakes for squeaking noises and replace worn brake pads, if needed. If your brake pedal feels soft, this might mean low brake fluid. Top it off, along with your other fluids. 

• Tires

For optimal fuel economy, check your tire pressure before embarking, including the spare tire. Underinflated tires waste precious gas. Check the condition of the tire treads by inserting a penny upside down between the treads on each tire. If you can see the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head on the penny, it may be time for a tire replacement. If you’re looking at uneven wear on all of the tires, get them rotated and aligned for the journey.  

If you’re unsure of any of these steps, always consult a professional mechanic so you don’t spend your drive time in a repair shop.

Power Trucks USA 

For those who need full-service automotive aftermarket accessories for their power truck, Jeep or SUV, Power Trucks USA has got you covered. We offer exceptional customer service and sales and installation of everything from bumper-to-bumper, including oil changes and/or any other maintenance that vehicles require. 

Don’t forget to add some sweet custom accessories or upgrade your vehicle’s audio system so you can add a soundtrack to your roading adventures. Be safe and happy driving!

To learn more about Power Trucks USA, visit here. 

For franchising opportunities, visit here.