Planning a summer road trip from San Rafael? Before you hit the road, it’s smart to give your car a little extra attention. Hot weather and long drives can push your vehicle harder than usual, so doing some key maintenance now can save you from breakdowns later.  For maintenance services in San Rafael, CA, don’t delay a visit to Auto Repair Specialist.

Check Your Fluids

Start with the basics: oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. These play vital roles in keeping your engine cool, your brakes responsive, and your visibility clear. If it’s been a while since your last oil change or coolant flush, now’s the time to handle it. San Rafael’s summer temperatures may not be extreme, but long drives can still cause engines to overheat if fluids are low or dirty.

Inspect Tires and Tire Pressure

Your tires are literally where the rubber meets the road, so give them a careful look. Uneven tread, cracking sidewalls, or low pressure can all be red flags. Hot pavement can increase tire pressure, so make sure they’re properly inflated; check your vehicle manual for the ideal PSI. Also, don’t forget to inspect your spare tire and ensure your jack is in working condition.

Test the Battery

Warm weather can shorten battery life, especially if it’s already a few years old. Have your battery tested to make sure it’s holding a charge. If your car’s been slow to start or you’ve noticed dim lights, a new battery might be in order before you head out.

Air Conditioning and Filters

Nothing kills the summer road trip vibe like a broken AC. Make sure your air conditioning is blowing cold and that your cabin and engine air filters are clean. Replacing a dirty filter can improve airflow and fuel efficiency.

Lights, Wipers, and Brakes

Check your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals, and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Wiper blades should be in good shape, too, in case you hit a sudden rainstorm. And of course, listen for any squealing or grinding from your brakes—if something sounds off, get it checked.

Auto Maintenance in San Rafael

To maximize the performance and reliability of your car or truck, it is important to keep up with preventive maintenance services. Auto Repair Specialist is a dealer alternative for auto maintenance in San Rafael, meaning we can complete any factory services required by your car or truck, even those necessary to keep its new car warranty valid. The next time your car is due for service, skip the expensive dealership and come see for fast and fair-priced car care. Call us at (415) 612-3933 toschedule an appointment.