Colorful leaves and cooler weather are great, but the thing we most look forward to in fall is enjoying every single moment of tailgating season! After packing up the car with all your snacks, friends and family, the last thing you want is a breakdown. So before you hit the road with your precious cargo, make sure your vehicle is up-to-date on its maintenance. Here’s a quick checklist to think about before you hit the road.
Oil
Oil keeps your vehicle’s parts moving smoothly. Yet during the summer months, the increased temperatures and extra miles you spend on road trips put your engine under more stress. Keep your engine cool and lubricated by changing your oil and oil filters at regular intervals.
Fluids
In addition to having your oil checked, it’s important to have your vehicle’s other fluids checked and topped off as well. Windshield washer fluid, steering, transmission, brake fluid, and antifreeze/coolant all play key roles in keeping things running efficiently. Your coolant should be a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water. And as long as you’re packing up for the big game, it’s never a bad idea to also bring along extra coolant for the road.
Brakes
Brakes are one of the last things you want to fail on your tailgating trip. However, the maintenance schedule for replacing brake pads isn’t always as predictable as an oil change. While your owner’s manual can provide a guideline for how long to go between oil changes, the need to replace your brake pads depends more on your style and type of driving. Aggressive driving styles, driving on hilly roads and driving patterns with lots of stop-and-go traffic necessitate changing brake pads more often.Tires
Finally, don’t forget to give your tires a check before you head out. Be sure they are rotated and filled to their proper pressure levels. If the tread is showing signs of wear, it may be time to have them replaced.
Whether your tailgating schedule takes you out-of-state or to the stadium just a few minutes down the road, investing in your vehicle’s maintenance will help you avoid the hassle of a breakdown. Stop by and see us at your nearest Indiana Jiffy Lube where our certified technicians will help make sure you get the most out of tailgating season. Go team!
