Car Care Tips Before Your Expected 4th of July Weekend Trip

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — AAA projects that 50.7 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from their homes this Independence Day weekend, setting a new record for the holiday.

Mr. Transmission in Clarksville joined WDRB Mornings to discuss car care tips.

Here are some areas of the car that the professionals at Mr. Transmission recommend checking to ensure a safe and comfortable road trip:

• Cooling Systems – Car engines can overheat after spending several hours on the interstate while driving at high speeds in hot summer temperatures. It’s important to make sure you have the proper type of engine coolant, it’s a 50/50 mix of coolant and water and it’s filled to the correct levels.
• Battery – Car batteries can deteriorate quickly and without warning. Between prolonged use of the engine, air conditioning, radio, GPS, and other passenger electronics, a long drive can contribute to draining a car’s battery. Most batteries have a useful life of 4-5 years and it is important to test the battery before taking a long trip.
• Tires – Car owners need to monitor the proper air pressure and amount of tread in each tire and align and balance them properly. Air in tires expands when the weather gets warmer, so owners will want to make sure tires aren’t overinflated.
• Suspension System: We often load the car with a family of passengers, luggage, and personal items when we take a summer road trip. The added weight on the vehicle puts stress on the suspension system, which includes the springs, shocks, and struts. Worn suspension components can reduce vehicle stability and reduce driver control, as well as accelerate wear on other suspension system components.
• Air Filter – A car’s air filter should be changed every year or every 15,000 miles. This gives the vehicle a good supply of clean air and prevents poor fuel economy and performance. A convenient time to check or replace the filter is during oil change appointments.

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