Get Your VW Road Trip Ready with These Summer Auto Service Tips

Proper maintenance is the key to keeping your Volkswagen running smoothly year-round. And with summer upon us, road trips might be in your future,

Before heading out on any road trip, having your VW checked by a professional can mean the difference between an unforgettable trip and a breakdown on the side of the road. And nobody wants to spend their vacation stuck at a repair shop, so addressing potential issues beforehand can save you time and frustration. 

The service team at Mike Reichenbach Volkswagen of Florence is ready to help you prepare for a worry-free summer with professional VW maintenance. Use this essential summer maintenance checklist to make sure your vehicle is ready to provide the safety, reliability, and comfort you need on the road.

Your Auto Maintenance Checklist For Summer Travel

Tires and Tire Pressure

A flat tire puts a damper on any trip, so inspect all four tires for both tread depth and proper air pressure before heading out. Check each tire carefully for damage like cuts, gouges, or bulging sidewalls. Replace or repair as needed.

Test your tread depth using the penny method: place a penny head-down into the tire grooves. If you can see all of Abe Lincoln’s head above the tread, your tires need to be replaced. Don’t forget to include your spare tire in this inspection. Bald tires are dangerous, so don’t neglect this!

Measure tire pressure when your vehicle is parked and the tires are cool. Add air as necessary to match the pressure specifications listed in your owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door jamb.

Brakes and Suspension

If you notice grinding noises or vibrations when braking, have your brakes inspected by a professional. A qualified technician will examine your entire brake system, including checking for fluid leaks and assessing the condition of your brake pads, rotors, shocks, and struts to make sure everything is functioning properly.

Battery

A dead battery is never convenient, so checking your battery before you hit the road can save you a lot of headaches. Test your battery to ensure it’s holding a charge, and clean the terminals to make sure the connection is strong. 

Air Conditioning 

A summer road trip won’t be so fun if your A/C isn’t functioning properly! If your system isn’t blowing cold air, or if it’s been years since your last service, schedule an A/C inspection at your local Volkswagen service center in Florence!

Fluid Check

Make sure your engine oil, coolant, transmission, and power steering fluids are at the right levels. Low or dirty fluids can lead to overheating or mechanical issues, especially in high temperatures, so replace or top off fluids as necessary.

When you schedule an oil change with our Volkswagen service team, we can check for other fluids that need to be replaced or refilled.

Windshield Wipers

Summer storms are the norm here in the southeast, so you’ll want to make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition. If it’s been a while since you replaced them, it’s a good idea to install a new set before your trip.

Schedule Auto Service at Mike Reichenbach Volkswagen of Florence!

Don’t let car trouble derail your summer plans! You can drive with confidence when you take the time to complete these simple maintenance checks before you hit the road. 

When you’re ready to prepare your VW for summer adventures, schedule your pre-trip inspection at our vehicle service center. We’ll help you get road trip ready so you can focus on what matters most: making memories and enjoying the journey.

To make your auto maintenance more affordable, check out our Volkswagen service coupons and discounts on VW auto parts! 

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