As spring blooms into summer in Washington State, many of us are planning summer road trips. Whether you’re dreaming of a coastal drive or a mountain getaway, ensuring your vehicle is road-trip ready is essential. At Graham Auto Repair, we want to help you prepare your car for the adventures ahead with our comprehensive vehicle services.
Check out this short video where our team shares their tips to prepare for a road trip. Along with some essential items to take with you.
1. Oil Change Service:
Why it's important: Oil changes help maintain your engine’s health and ensures it remains efficient. Replacing the old oil removes any debris that have built up over time. Fresh oil ensures that all engine components are well-lubricated and working together with ease. Ready to schedule your next oil service? Click Here To Book Online
2. Free Vehicle Health Inspection:
What's Included: With every service at Graham Auto Repair, we offer a free comprehensive vehicle health inspection. This inspection is digital and our team will send you photos to show you what we find. If we see that anything needs your attention, we will let you know if it's something that should be taken care of right away, or if it can wait.
- Fluid Levels: We check the engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and brake fluid. Additionally, we look for any visible signs of leaks.
- Visual Brake Inspection: We complete a visual assessment of the brakes, including measurements when they are accessible.
- Road Test: We take your vehicle on a road test to see how it's driving.
- Battery Test: We complete a battery test to ensure it's in its best condition.
- Air Filters Inspection: We inspect the cabin air filter and the engine air filter to ensure they are clean and able to perform at their best.
- Belts and Hoses Inspection: We inspect your belts and hoses, looking for any signs of wear or damage. We also inspect your spark plugs when they are accessible.
- Tire Pressure and Tread Depth: We measure the tread depth check for other visual signs that your tires may need to be replaced or repaired.
- Headlights: We check the turn signals, hazards, headlights, and brake lights. We also check the windshield wipers.
3. Replace Common Items:
- Windshield Wipers: Clear visibility is important on a road trip! It's important to make sure your wipers are in their best condition before you get on the road.
- Cabin Air Filter: By replacing the cabin air filter you and your passengers will breathe easier on your road trip.
- Engine Air Filter: Replacing your engine air filter when it's dirty and/or clogged is important. When airflow is reduced or blocked it will cause your engine to work harder and consume more fuel.
- Headlights: It may not be time to replace them. But if you are going on a long trip, you may want to keep back-up headlights in your car. Especially if you will be driving far away from society and stores at night.
4. Complete Brake Inspection:
Why it may be needed: Have you noticed any signs of braking concerns, like squealing or slower braking? Are your brake pads getting low? If so it's important to have a detailed brake inspection. That way our Technicians can tell you exactly which brake components need to be repaired or replaced. Do you want to schedule a brake inspection? Click Here To Book Online
5. Fluid Services:
When these may be necessary: Different fluids have different recommended maintenance based on your vehicle, driving habits, and both time & mileage. When in doubt you can check your vehicle maintenance guide, or talk with one of our Service Advisors. They will help you determine the best time to have these services completed. Do you want to schedule a fluid service? Click Here To Book Online
6. Tire Services:
- Align and Balance Tires: Having an alignment and balancing your tires will ensure you have a smooth ride on your trip.
- Rotate Tires: Rotating tires helps to ensure that your tires wear down evenly.
- Replace Tires: If the tread depth is too low, or if there are signs of damage, you should take care of this before you hit the road. No one wants to end up with a flat tire on their trip!
Don't forget these things: Don’t forget to pack jumper cables or a jumper box, a tire-changing kit, a first aid kit, water, snacks, and a flashlight. These are a few items to ensure you’re prepared for any situation on the road. And don't forget to have fun!
If you take the time to prepare your vehicle before your summer road trip, you will have increased peace of mind on your trip. We hope these suggestions will help ensure you have a safe and enjoyable journey! If you have any questions about vehicle maintenance or want to schedule a service, contact our team today. We look forward to serving you to ensure your vehicle is ready for all your upcoming adventures this summer!
At Graham Auto Repair we prioritize your safety and your vehicle's health. Our team of ASE Certified Technicians is dedicated to provide you with transparent, quality, and professional service. We perform a comprehensive digital vehicle inspection with every service. We also provide a lifetime warranty on most parts and labor. Schedule your appointment with us today to experience peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle is in good hands. Thank you for taking the time to read our blog. We look forward to serving you!
