Ensuring Your Car is Road Trip Ready: A Summer Guide
Summer is synonymous with road trips – the season where adventure beckons and the open road calls out for exploration. Whether it’s a weekend escape to the beach or a long-haul journey to the mountains, one thing remains paramount – the need to ensure your vehicle is road trip ready. Before embarking on your next summer adventure, it’s crucial to prioritize the safety and maintenance of your car, starting with checking your brakes and tires.
1. Brake Maintenance:
Brakes are arguably one of the most critical components of your vehicle, and the wear and tear on them can vary based on your driving habits. City drivers who navigate stop-and-go traffic regularly may need to replace their brakes more frequently than those cruising on rural roads with less frequent stops.
When inspecting your brakes, pay particular attention to the front brakes, as they bear the brunt of the braking workload. Ideally, brake pads should measure between 3 and 10 millimeters in thickness. Any screeching or grinding noises when applying the brakes are red flags indicating the need for immediate attention.
Besides the brake pads, it’s essential to have your calipers inspected for signs of rust, uneven wear, or warping. These components play a crucial role in the braking system and ensuring they are in good condition is vital for your safety on the road.
2. Tire Care:
Proper tire maintenance is vital for both safety and optimal performance. Regular tire rotations every 5,000 miles or six months help ensure even wear and extend the lifespan of your tires. Additionally, consistent monitoring of tire pressure not only maximizes fuel efficiency but also reduces the risk of flat tires or blowouts.
To quickly assess the tread wear on your tires, try the “penny test.” Place a penny upside down into the tread grooves, with Lincoln’s head facing you. If the tread only reaches the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s a clear indication that it’s time to replace your tires and ensure proper traction on the road.
3. Visit Our Service Center:
Prior to hitting the road for your summer escapades, a visit to our service center is highly recommended. Our GM Certified Technicians are equipped to thoroughly inspect your vehicle’s brakes and tires, ensuring they are in optimal condition for a safe and smooth journey ahead.
By entrusting your car to our experts, you can rest assured that your vehicle is road trip ready, allowing you to focus on creating unforgettable memories during your summer travels.
Remember, a well-maintained car not only enhances your safety but also contributes to a hassle-free road trip experience. Don’t let faulty brakes or worn-out tires hinder your summer adventures – prioritize vehicle maintenance and embark on your next road trip with confidence!
In conclusion, a proactive approach to car maintenance, particularly focusing on brakes and tires, is key to ensuring your vehicle is road trip ready. Whether you’re planning a short weekend getaway or a cross-country expedition, investing time and effort into pre-trip inspections can make all the difference in enhancing both your safety and enjoyment on the road. So, get your vehicle checked, pack your bags, and set off on a summer road trip to remember!
What do I do if my check engine light comes on?
The dreaded check engine light is something that many drivers have experienced at one time or another. Often a source of anxiety and confusion, it’s not always clear what the light is trying to tell you. Because of this, it is easy to want to ignore. Put a sticky note over it and out of sight, out of mind! Right?
Wrong. It’s very important to identify and address the issue quickly, as it could lead to bigger problems down the road.
First Steps
When your check engine light comes on, it’s a warning from your vehicle that something isn’t quite right. It could be as simple as an improperly replaced gas cap, or it could be a sign of a more serious issue such as a faulty sensor or a problem with the engine or transmission. In most cases, if your vehicle isn’t showing any other warning signs such as smoking, vibrating, or making unusual noises, then you are probably fine to drive until you can reach a repair facility.
However, if you do notice any further warning signs, it’s important to pull over as quickly and safely as possible and call a tow truck. Continuing to drive when there is a serious issue can risk damage to the engine, transmission, or other vital systems, and it can turn a quick fix into an extensive (and expensive) repair.
Engine Repairs You Can Trust
When your check engine light comes on, you want to be able to take your vehicle to people you can trust. At Hulett Chevrolet Buick GMC, we have a team of certified technicians who can diagnose and address any issues that may be causing the check engine light to come on, and keep you in the loop every step of the way. Our technicians have the expertise and the tools to accurately diagnose the problem and provide you with the most effective solution.
Don’t Wait! Call Hulett Today!
Always make sure to take your check engine light seriously and be ready to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified technician if it comes on. It’s always best to address the problem as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your vehicle, so don’t wait! At Hulett Chevrolet Buick GMC, we’re here to help you with any issues that may be causing your check engine light to come on – schedule an appointment with us today.
Come Work for The Hulett Team!
Are you in need of a stable job with great pay and benefits? Well, you are in luck! Our dealership is currently in need of some go-getters who are ready to begin a new chapter in their professional career.We are hiring in two of our departments:PartsFor our Parts Department, we are seeking a Parts Counter Assistant who is energetic, self-motivated, and detail oriented with exceptional customer service skills. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older, possess a valid driver’s license and pass a background check. Hours range from 40-45/week. Apply within or contact:Paul Steinwachs, Parts Managerpaul@shophulett.com573-346-7272Hulett Chevrolet513 N Business Rt5Camdenton MO 65020ServiceFor our Service team we are needing a Line Technician with great dependability, strong communication and teamwork skills, as well as meet the physical requirements of the job. This position does require previous GM experience and the pay rate starts at $25/hr.Apply within or contact:Nick Williams, Service Managernick@shophulett.comHulett Chevrolet513 N Business Rt5Camdenton MO 65020Now that you know about our openings, apply today by submitting your application and resume to the listed contacts above, or feel free to stop in and apply. We can’t wait to have you join our team and become part of the Hulett family!
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