Be Prepared: It Just Feels Better
When You're Both READY & Raring To Go On Vacation
Preparing your car for summer, winter, or anytime vacations is essential for ensuring a smooth, trouble-free journey and a safer experience. Ott's recommends contacting our service manager, Corey, and booking an appointment for a multipoint inspection. You want to be confident that everything is topped up, checked out, tightened up, replaced if necessary, and ready for the journey. If you drive an older model vehicle, perhaps considering a CAA membership before setting out would be a sound decision. It's good peace of mind in case of an incident. Ott's is the ONLY approved and recommended CAA repair shop in Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo, Guelph, and the area. We service numerous members weekly who have been towed in off the road by CAA because of vehicle failure issues. Being stranded at the side of the road is an unpleasant experience. We want to help you avoid that sinking feeling so you can set out for adventure without needless worry.
Below is a comprehensive checklist with examples for each item, which should help you and your family enjoy your vacation without incidents or delays:
1. Check the Tires:
• Tread Depth: Ensure the tires have sufficient tread depth for adequate traction.
• Pressure: Inflate tires to the recommended pressure to avoid blowouts and improve fuel efficiency.
• Spare Tire: Ensure the spare tire is in good condition and properly inflated.
2. Inspect the Brakes:
• Pads and Rotors: Check for wear and tear. Worn brakes can lead to reduced stopping power.
• Fluid Level: Ensure brake fluid is at the appropriate level to maintain braking performance.
3. Test the Battery:
• Charge and Connections: Check the battery’s charge and clean any corrosion on the terminals. A weak battery can leave you stranded.
4. Check Fluid Levels:
• Engine Oil: Top up or change the oil to keep the engine running smoothly.
• Coolant: Ensure the coolant level is adequate to prevent the engine from overheating.
• Transmission Fluid: Check the level and condition to avoid transmission problems.
• Windshield Washer Fluid: Keep the reservoir full for clear visibility.
5. Inspect Belts and Hoses:
• Look for any signs of wear, cracks, or leaks. Broken belts or hoses can cause significant engine damage and leave you stranded.
6. Check the Air Conditioning System:
• Make sure the A/C is working properly to keep the cabin cool during the hot summer drive.
7. Test the Lights:
• Ensure all headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals are functioning. Proper lighting is crucial for safety, especially at night or in adverse weather conditions.
8. Inspect the Wiper Blades:
• Check for wear and replace if necessary to ensure clear visibility in case of rain.
9. Ensure Emergency Supplies:
• First Aid Kit: Stock with basic medical supplies.
• Tool Kit: Include basic tools for minor repairs.
• Jumper Cables: In case of a dead battery.
• Flashlight: For emergencies in the dark.
• Reflective Triangles/Flares: To alert other drivers if you break down.
10. Check the Exhaust System:
• Inspect for leaks or damage, as exhaust issues can affect engine performance and safety.
11. Review the Car’s Manual. Knowledge is empowering:
• Familiarize yourself with the car’s recommended maintenance schedule and emergency procedures.
12. Ensure Documentation is Current:
• Registration and Insurance: Ensure they are up to date and stored in the car.
• Roadside Assistance: Have contact information readily available. (A CAA membership is peace of mind.)
13. Plan the Route and Rest Stops:
• Familiarize yourself with the route and identify rest stops to avoid fatigue and stay refreshed.
14. Plan To Have A Digital GPS Map APP AND A Physical Paper Road Map:
• Location Map Apps dramatically reduce cell phone battery life. Be sure you have a charger in your vehicle at all times especially if you are entering remote areas. Invest in a good old fashioned physical paper road map. It will help show you where you are in an emergency. Recently, I was in a snow storm in unfamiliar territory and my cell phone battery died. I was relying on my cell phone for both voice and text communication as well as digital GPS maps to take me to my exact destination. Immediately, I didn't know where I was and family members were leaving messages which I could not retrieve.
Be sure to take along a plug-in charger as well as an energy storage device so if your vehicle won't start you are able to re-boost your cell phone to call for help. You'll be glad you did.
15. Let Family or Friends Know Where You're Going:
• While most holidays go off without a hitch, you need to plan ahead in case there is an unforeseen emergency. Print out an itinerary outlining the where and whens of your journey and leave it with a close family member or friend. Summer weather is usually forgiving; however, winters in Canada could lead to real trouble in severe weather. Play it safe. Be sure to inform people you know the details of your travel plans and communicate with them periodically during your trip.
Ott's Is Here for You
Remember, Ott's is your automotive "Safety Partner" in town and around the Quad-City Area. Make an appointment to come in and have us give your family vehicle "the-once-over-twice" before setting out. Following this checklist will help ensure your car is safe and reliable for your vacation road trip no matter when you decide to take it. It's this peace of mind that will minimize the risks of breakdowns and enhance your family’s safety and comfort while on the road.
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