It takes some serious preparation to do a road trip right. From planning your route to packing snacks, there is a lot to do to ensure your family is ready to hit the road.
But it is even more important to make sure your vehicle is equipped for the miles ahead. Because car trouble can send your vacation off track quickly, our certified technicians here at Nissan of Orangeburg have created this helpful car maintenance checklist!
We are dedicated to keeping your car running at peak performance, no matter where the road takes you. Schedule your appointment with our Nissan Service Department today – and check each item off this list before you embark on your next great adventure.
- Conduct a thorough tire check.
Carefully inspect your tires for uneven tire tread wear, cuts, gouges, etc. Check your owner’s manual for tire pressure recommendations and make sure your tires are properly inflated – before you leave and along the way. Tire rotations are also important, so consult your maintenance schedule and make sure you are up to date. Plus, do not forget a spare tire!
- Make sure your battery is in good condition.
Check your battery to ensure it is in good condition. Dead batteries require a jump or roadside assistance – and nothing puts a damper on your travels like car trouble!
- Test the brakes.
Listen carefully for squeaking, grinding or any other abnormal noises. If you hear anything suspicious, schedule an inspection. The qualified technicians at our Nissan Service Department will check your brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums and fluid levels.
- Check all fluid levels.
Make sure all the following are correct:
- Engine oil levels
- Transmission fluid levels
- Power steering fluid levels
- Coolant levels
- Brake fluid levels
- Windshield washer fluid levels
It is a good idea to check your wiper blades too, so that you are prepared for any storms you may encounter.
- Properly maintain filters.
To ensure your vehicle achieves peak performance, check both the cabin and engine air filters. Check your oil filter as well.
- Check belts and hoses.
As a general rule, most maintenance schedules recommend replacing drive belts and timing belts every 60,000 miles. If radiator hoses are bulging, worn, brittle, or too soft, that is a clear indication that it is time to replace them.
- Test your air conditioner.
Your car’s air conditioner provides much-needed relief during summer’s sweltering days – so be sure that it is working properly before hitting the road.
- Ensure your lights are working properly.
Check your headlights and all interior lights to be sure they function correctly.
Roadside Emergency Kit Essentials
While stocking up on snacks is crucial for keeping hunger at bay between pit stops, packing your car emergency kit is even more important! Remember that you cannot always rely on cell phone service, and if you find yourself stuck on the side of the road, you will want these essentials within reach.
Include these items in your road trip emergency kit:
- A spare tire, jack and wheel wrench
- Jumper cables
- First aid kit (including bandages, aspirin, scissors, tape, etc)
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Basic tool kit
- Car charger for phone
- Nonperishable, high-protein snacks (nuts, granola bars, etc)
- Drinking water
- Rain poncho
- Reflective triangles and vest to increase visibility
- Small fire extinguisher
Schedule Your Service Appointment at Nissan of Orangeburg!
Ready for an inspection to ensure your vehicle checks every box on the car maintenance checklist? Schedule a service appointment today and drive with confidence.
If you are looking to buy a Nissan in Orangeburg before hitting the opening road, we can help with that, too! As your trusted Nissan dealership in Orangeburg, our team is committed to helping you find the perfect new vehicle.
Check out the stylish Nissan Altima, with a roomy interior and plenty of fun tech features. Or test drive the family-friendly Rogue, the 2021 IIHS Top Safety Pick with the most standard safety features in its class!
Get to Nissan of Orangeburg today!
