Summer weather can wreak havoc on your vehicle. If you are planning on relying on your wheels for a family vacation, follow these tips to make sure your have a great holiday. Have your vehicle’s major systems inspected to avoid any nasty surprises on the road. Remember the old saying…” an ounce of prevention…”

1 - Cooling System: Check for leaks in the radiator and for cracks or swelling in the hoses. If your antifreeze is more than two years old, replace it.
2 -  Air Conditioning: Be sure the compressor is working properly and not making any odd noises, as this could indicate that it’s about to die. Make sure you have enough refrigerant as well.
3 - Steering and tires: Does your vehicle pull? This could be an indication that a wheel alignment is in order. Are your tires worn? If so, you could reducing your traction on the road. Match your recommended tire pressure according to your manufacturer. It does make a difference to how much pressure you put in your tires whether or not you have a fully loaded car with maximum passengers, or if it’s just the driver alone. Of course, also check on your spare tire to make sure it’s fully operational.
4 - Battery: Batteries more than two or three years old should be checked for strength. Confirm that the connections between the cables and terminals are free from any corrosion.
5 - Brakes: If you drove last winter through road salt, it could’ve lead to brake damage, so make sure to get your brakes serviced. Your inspection should include a peek at all brake linings and pads and the hydraulic system should be looked at for any leakage. If you feel sponginess or pulling when braking, or a drop in the master cylinder’s fluid level reservoir, let your mechanic know, as these are reasons for concern. When was your last inspection?
6 - Engine Drive Belts: These drive belts operate important parts in your engine, such as the alternator, water pump and air conditioner compressor. Have these belts checked for cracks, dry rot, glazing, uneven wear or frayed edges. Slippage in these belts could result in break downs, loss of your air conditioning, engine overheating or even loss of steering! The timing or overhead cam drive belts are also important because if these break they could cause internal engine damage.
7 - Lights: Obviously make sure your headlights and fog lights are in proper worker order…you never know when you may need them.
8 - Carry emergency gear: A blanket, flashlight, rags, bottled water, oil, extra coolant and something coloured red (flag, cloth) for ease of visibility, if you happen to be pulled over. If you’re traveling with pets, make sure to have a good supply of food and water for them, too. Of course it goes without saying that a first aid kit is always a good idea as well.

And for some non-mechanical advice:

1 - Manage your stress: Leave plenty enough time to get to your destination – remember that you’re probably not the only one vacationing right now. Check local weather and traffic conditions as well as the current road work schedules for any delays to your trip.
2 - When you shouldn’t drive: If you’re drowsy, let someone else take over. Stats show that there should be a switch to drivers every 3 hours in order to keep everyone fresh and relaxed. Stats also show that some drivers actually speed when tired, adding to the danger factor. If you’re drifting from your lane, driving on rumble strips, yawning repeatedly, missing road signs, tailgating or having trouble staying focused, then it’s time to pull over.
3 - Some common-sense advice that isn’t so common: You may think having passengers buckled up properly, a full tank of gas, not drinking and driving and children less than 12 years sitting in the back seat away from front airbags seems pretty redundant to mention, but again, statistics show it isn’t. If you’re on medication(s), make sure they don’t have a side effect which can cause drowsiness. Things like adjusting your headrests to just about even with the top of the ears of each passenger can also reduce injuries during a rear-impact collision. Always secure suitcases and other gear so they don’t become projectiles in a crash. Make sure you don’t have seat covers on seats with seat-mounted airbags. Secure your pet in a proper pet carrier, not on your lap or loose wandering around in your truck box where again they can become a projectile to you and others around you. You secure your children, why wouldn’t you do the same for your beloved pet?

Above all, have a SAFE holiday where you’re making fun memories and not awful miseries.

Karen J. Williams is a Sales and Leasing Consultant with Okanagan Chrysler Jeep Dodge. You can reach her at (250) 861-1040 or email at karenw@okanagandodge.com

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