5 Checks to Make Before You Hit the Road This Summer

Beat the heat with these maintenance tips for warmer weather
By OnStar

Summer Driving

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, and for many of us, a summer road trip can’t be far behind. If you’re planning a long road trip or just heading to the local beach, these driving trips can help make your summer plans run more smoothly.

Caring for your car this summer
Before you hit the road, it’s important to make sure your car is ready for the unique demands of summer driving.

To lessen the odds of a breakdown, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) recommends that you check the following:

Cooling system
According to the ASE, the greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. So have your cooling system checked — it may need a flush and refill.

Air conditioning
Speaking of cool, have your mechanic check your air conditioning and fluids to make sure you won’t be left sweltering in the sun.

Wiper blades
Winter’s salt and ice may have wreaked havoc on wiper blades, and a dirty windshield can be a safety hazard. Replace your old blades and make sure your windshield washer fluid is filled.

Tires
According to Drive Safe PA, hot weather can cause the air inside the tire to expand, causing a blowout if the tire is in poor condition. The ASE recommends that you have your tires rotated every 5,000 miles, and don’t forget to check that your spare is in good condition.

Oil
How often you need to change your oil and filter will depend on driving conditions and your vehicle specifications, so check out your owner’s manual for what’s recommended.

OnStar subscribers can check your monthly OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics¹ email, which keeps you up-to-date on your vehicle’s key operating systems, including oil life and tire pressure. It also alerts you when it’s time to take your vehicle in for regular maintenance. And when you enroll in OnStar Dealer Maintenance Notification, your dealer will contact you to schedule a service appointment and provide you with the latest offers. It’s just one of the ways an OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics email can help you save money and drive with confidence.

Keeping the trip on course
Of course, even the best-laid plans are sometimes spoiled. If the unexpected does happen — you run out of gas or lock your keys in the car — just push your blue OnStar button and an OnStar Advisor can help with OnStar’s Roadside Assistance.²

Planning a summer driving trip doesn’t have to be stressful — with a little bit of preparation (and OnStar on your side) your vehicle will be ready to hit the road.

¹ Capabilities vary by model. Visit onstar.com for details and system limitations.
² Roadside Assistance provided by Cross Country.

Sources:
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s Drive Safe PA