Preparing your car for summer

When you’re driving on vacation, there’s nothing more frustrating than running out of fuel or experiencing a mechanical breakdown. Many drivers take the time to have their vehicle inspected before setting out. For a no-stress vacation, follow their lead! Here are five tips to ensure complete safety on the road this summer.

Do your own inspection

Long summer road trips can put a strain on your vehicle. Here are some checks you can do yourself before you leave:

• Windshield wipers. Ideally change them every 6 months or before embarking on a long journey. Opt for flat and flexible blades for better performance.
• Headlights. Check their cleanliness and proper functioning. You can clean and polish them yourself using treatments available at auto parts retailers or in supermarkets. For a longer-lasting result, seek professional polishing from your mechanic or at an auto detailing center.
• Fluid levels. Check the engine oil level before departing and ideally every 2 refuels at the gas station. Your car should be parked on a flat surface with the engine off for at least 10 minutes. Also, check the level of brake fluid and power steering fluid, as well as the coolant level. Fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir.
• Turn signals. Make sure they are all in good working condition by operating the brakes and turn signals.
• Tires. Check the wear and pressure of your tires. The recommended pressure by the manufacturer is indicated on a label attached to the driver's side door frame. Do not rely on the one written on your tires. Don't forget the spare tire!

By checking the condition of all these elements, you’ll identify any potential problems and be able to make the necessary adjustments before the big day. Take a look at our Do-it-yourself auto maintenance videos.

Call on the experts

Specialists also offer custom inspections specifically for drivers heading out on vacation. This kind of check, conducted by professionals, provides a diagnosis before you take to the road.

An inspection, which you can have done at one of the CAA-Quebec's authorized Vehicle Inspection Centres. It will tell you the condition of, among other things, the suspension, brakes, electronics... and the battery. “Because of the heat, summer, not winter, is the most damaging season for a car battery,” explains CAA-Quebec automotive industry analyst Sylvain Légaré.

After the inspection is done, if any adjustments or repairs are needed, don’t hesitate to visit an Approved Auto Repair Services outlet. That way, you’ll leave with true peace of mind!

Take care of your battery

You can check your battery yourself if you have a voltmeter and clean its terminals and the connectors attached to them. Put on gloves and safety goggles, wash everything with a little water and baking soda, and you're good to go. You can also entrust this task to your mechanic or to the CAA-Quebec Battery Service. In summer, your vehicle's battery works harder: heat can wear it out up to three times faster than winter cold. Park in shaded areas or underground parking lots during hot weather.

Plan your route

The TripTik® Travel Planner lets you design your own itinerary. A must-have tool for road trips, long and short. In many cases, you can avoid traffic jams by using a GPS system that relays real-time traffic conditions. Also, always leave your phone in a docking station or support. In addition to being a distraction, handheld use could result in a hefty fine, costing you money as well as demerit points! Laws differ from one province to another and from U.S. state to state. Find out before you leave!

Consider buying an emergency kit

You can buy emergency kits containing everything you’ll need if you run into trouble on the road. To simplify your life, choose one that also includes a first-aid kit.

Read up on Roadside Assistance services available along your route

Wherever you are in Canada or the United States, feel free to call the phone number on the back of your membership card for all your Roadside Assistance needs. CAA-Quebec collaborates with AAA and its network of Approved Auto Repair Services.