How To Prep Your Car For A Safe Summer Day Trip

You’ve been dreaming of a summer day trip for months now. Maybe you’re headed to the beach for a day of lounging or to the mountains for a brisk morning hike. Whatever your plans this summer, make sure to prep your car so that it is safe as you travel. Summertime is full of fun and adventure, so enjoy it – just be safe about it! 

Quickly prep your car to avoid road trouble:

• Look at your battery to make sure that the connections are tight and any corrosion is cleaned off. Summer heat will only make these worse. 
• Check your coolant so that your engine doesn’t overheat. Be sure to do this while the engine is cool to avoid injury. 
• Double check that your brakes are working well. If not, take your vehicle in for service: It’s not safe to drive if you can’t stop well. 
• Be sure that your tires are in good shape and that you have a viable spare tire. Confirm that you have the tools you might need to change a tire packed with you. 
• Ensure your fluids are topped off, particularly your windshield wiper fluid because the bright summer sun can create a dangerous glare when shining through dirty windows.  
• If you’re towing extras, like boats and campers, be sure to increase the frequency of oil changes.
• Have your air conditioning serviced and invest in a sunshield for general comfort.
• Confirm that you have emergency supplies on hand – flashlight, flares, basic tools, and extra water. 

Don’t let your first summer day trip be a downer because you’ve broken down or had an auto accident in Connecticut. Instead, take a few moments to prep your car before you head off. Prevention is always worth it in the end.