Prepping your vehicle for a safe road trip

It appears that 2021 will be the year of the road trip. AAA automotive experts have been busy with vehicles that haven’t been driven as much due to coronavirus pandemic restrictions. Some drivers may have also forgotten to give their cars the routine TLC they need for safe travel. Before you hit the road, it’s important to do these important checks to make sure your vehicle

truly road ready:

Tires:

Check your vehicle’s tire pressure — the correct pressure can be found on a sticker located inside the driver’s door. Miami Valley Area AAA Tire & Auto Centers offer outdoor stations allowing drivers to check tire pressure and add air to tires for free.

Check tire tread to make sure that your tires provide the grip you need to maintain control of your vehicle. An easy way to see if you need new tread is the classic penny trick. Simply drop a penny into the tire tread upside down, avoiding tread ribs. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head on the penny from the side, it’s definitely time to shop for

new tires.

Oil:

With the engine cold and not running, raise the hood and pull the oil dipstick out of its tube. Wipe the dipstick clean with a cloth and insert it fully back into its tube. Remove the dipstick again and check that the oil level is between the upper and lower level markings. If the level is at or below the lower mark, it may be time to add oil.

Not all dipsticks are made or read the same, drivers should check the vehicle’s owner’s manual for more detailed information.

AAA Members can receive a FREE Standard Oil Change for a limited time only, when they schedule an appointment at one of the following AAA owned Car Care locations:Beavercreek — AAA/Bob Sumerel Complete Car Care, 3321 Dayton-Xenia Road, Beavercreek, 937-705-1500;AAA Downtown Dayton Car Care Center, 200 E. Third St., Dayton, 937-228-2144.

Lights and wiper blades:

Drivers should regularly check headlights, brake lights, turn signals and the often-overlooked rear license plate light.

Wiper blades should also be inspected. Lift the blade up to its upright resting position and feel the blade, checking for a smooth edge. If the blade is torn or feels rough, it may be time for a replacement.

Some inspections are best left to the professionals.

Like many motorists today, you may be keeping your car longer. This makes it more important than ever to use a trusted professional auto repair shop.

Brakes: car care professional can provide a visual and road brake inspection

Fluids: brake, transmission, coolant, etc. — adding the wrong type of fluid can result in costly repairs

Battery: Test the amperage, voltage, and reserve health

Choosing a repair facility:

The best time to look for a repair shop is before you need one. To help prevent breakdowns it’s important to choose a quality fullservice auto repair shop and have service work performed by professional technicians trained to identify potential problems.

Preventative checks can save money by allowing you to make small repairs now, rather than larger ones later.

Ask family and friends for recommendations, and visit AAA.com/Repair to locate nearby AAA Approved Auto Repair Facilities.

Cindy Antrican is the public affairs manager of AAA Miami Valley. She can be contacted by email at cantrican@aaa-alliedgroup. com.