Now that summer has come to a close, it’s time to start thinking about making a checklist for heading back to college. Long distance drives can be hard on your vehicle, putting additional stress on everything from the engine to your tires. San Diego residents trust Evans Tire & Service Centers for comprehensive car maintenance and high quality service. So if you’re planning a college-bound road trip, what should you look out for before taking off?
1. Windshield Wiper Blades
Nothing is more inconvenient, and dangerous, than driving through a storm with malfunctioning windshield wipers. With infrequent rains during the summer months, aged or cracking wiper blades can be easily overlooked until it’s too late. Even though it rarely rains around these parts, you don’t want to get caught in an unexpected storm without the proper safety measures in place. It’s recommended that you change your wipers every six months with heavy use, so it might be worth it to replace them before you go–you’ll get through at least a semester without having to worry about them again.
2. Brakes
Especially if your car is getting older, it’s extremely important to have the brakes checked regularly. Over time, brake pads wear thin, eventually exposing the metal underneath. This causes a grating or squealing sound that lets you know your brakes need to be replaced. However, if you are planning a long trip, it’s better to have them checked ahead of time to avoid any problems on the road.
3. Tire Tread
Aging, threadbare tires are a hazard, and should always be replaced. Be sure to inspect your tires before heading out, making sure there’s no erratic tread wear, cracks, bumps, or bulges in the sidewall. Of course, it’s always a good idea to bring your car in for a tune-up from the professionals.
At Evans Tire & Service Centers, our experienced technicians are always ready get you back in action with an engine repair, oil change, or a new set of tires. San Diego drivers headed off to college can contact us today to get a final check-up done before they hit the road.
