After a long and stressful quarantine, home schooling and remote working, chances are you’re ready go anywhere simply for a change of scenery.
If you’re not ready to board a plane, how about a family road trip?
Yes! You can start planning now! Where to go, what to pack, snacks for the kids (and the driver!) etc. As you’re making your preparation list, there is one thing you must include: Having the family car checked out at Bockman’s Auto, Truck & Tire.
The family vehicle has likely been sitting a lot more than normal. And while many people think that sitting means “barely used,” that isn’t true when it comes to your car.
Cars are Made to Drive
You might not realize it but when it comes to your family ride, sitting = rotting. Cars were made to be driven frequently, burning off condensation, allowing fluids to circulate and keep things lubricated, and more.
This means that, before you head out to your destination, you should plan to have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic.
An Ounce of Prevention…
You know that old saying, and we bet you can just picture being in the middle of nowhere, with no cell signal, and a dead car. Your kids are bored and cranky, your spouse is as well, and you worry that the next car that comes by might not stop, or worse still, they appear to be dangerous people. Yikes!
Don’t put yourself or your family in that situation. We can’t think of a better reason to have your car inspected than to ensure the safety of your family.
We recommend having your car, truck, or SUV inspected 2 weeks before you head out on the highway (1 week at a minimum). This way, if there are repairs that need to be done, there is plenty of time to secure the parts, have the work done, and test drive it around town before you head out on the highway.
What Does a Vehicle Inspection Involve?
You might think that you could do this yourself, but even if you can get under the vehicle, you aren’t going to be able to see everything the way an experienced mechanic does.
At Bockman’s, our auto technicians will put the vehicle on a lift and inspect for:
- Engine oil leaks
- Transmission fluid leaks
- Exhaust leaks, or exhaust pipes that may be loose or severely rusted
- Worn shocks and struts
- Front and rear suspension
- Steering components
- Tires and wheels
- Brakes
- Battery
- Belts & hoses
- Windshield wipers
We’ll also check fluid levels and fluid condition for:
- Engine oil
- Automatic transmission fluid
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Radiator fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
Lastly, our tech will check all exterior lights to be sure they’re working properly, including the hazard lights and the brake lights.
Don’t Ignore Obvious Warning Signs
Of course, if the Check Engine light is on, you should have us diagnose and repair it – even if the car appears to be running fine. You don’t want to risk a breakdown because you ignored a warning light.
Call us today at 815.756.7413 to schedule your car inspection appointment or book online. Safe travels!
