With winter nothing but a distant memory in the rearview mirror, many drivers start to think about a motoring ritual – a road trip.
However, car trouble, usually due to neglected preventive maintenance, can bring an abrupt end to vacation plans.
The situation usually means more than just a repair bill. It can involve towing charges, lodging and possibly a rental car.
Add to that the cost of extra phone calls, meals and general inconvenience, and the ordeal becomes expensive.
This scenario usually can be avoided with a pre-vacation inspection performed by a qualified automotive technician.
This ‘physical’ for your automobile should address the following systems: cooling, braking, emission control, steering/suspension, fuel and electrical and ignition.
In addition, the tech should evaluate engine performance, tires/wheels, air conditioning/heater/defroster, instruments/gauges, windshield wipers, horns/lights/mirrors, seat belts and the car’s body, inside and out.
Not only can a pre-trip inspection help reduce chances of costly and possibly dangerous road trouble, it also provides an opportunity to have repairs made at home, with one’s own technician who knows the vehicle.
Especially important, it provides peace of mind. While no inspection can guarantee a car’s performance, it’s comforting to know proper precautions were taken.
