As summer approaches, the open road begins calling, and whether you're headed to the lake, the mountains, or just across Hillsdale or Michigan, your vehicle needs to be ready for the extra miles and added heat.
According to the auto service team at Cronin Hillsdale CDJR, summer is one of the busiest seasons for emergency repairs, and most of those could have been avoided with a quick pre-trip inspection.
If you're planning any road trips this summer, or just want peace of mind during daily driving, now is the time to take action. Our certified technicians have outlined the most important vehicle checks and services to help you avoid breakdowns and stay cool, safe, and road-ready.
Start with an Oil Change and General Inspection
Routine oil changes are one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your engine running smoothly, especially in warm weather. Old or dirty oil can reduce performance, hurt fuel efficiency, and even damage your engine. If you're getting close to your next oil change, or can't remember when your last one was, schedule an appointment before your next long drive.
During the same visit, ask for a multi-point inspection. This allows a trained technician to look over belts, hoses, filters, and other wear-prone components that can fail under heat or heavy use.
RELATED ARTICLE: Auto Repair Near Me – Why Staying Local Saves You Time, Money, and Stress
Tires: Your First Line of Safety
Tires play a major role in ride comfort, fuel efficiency, and most importantly… safety. Our mechanics suggest checking tire pressure, tread depth, and for any visible signs of wear or cracking. Hot pavement and long drives can increase the risk of blowouts, especially if your tires are underinflated or worn unevenly.
If you're heading out on a road trip, don't forget to check the condition of your spare tire and make sure your jack and tire-changing tools are in place.
Brakes You Can Count On
Your brakes are just as important as your engine when it comes to travel safety. Pay attention to signs like squealing noises, longer stopping distances, or vibration when braking. These may signal worn brake pads or rotors. A brake inspection ensures your system is responsive and reliable, no matter how far your trip takes you.
Fluids and Filters Matter More Than You Think
Your vehicle relies on a range of fluids to keep systems running smoothly – coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, windshield washer fluid, and power steering fluid. Summer heat can strain these systems, leading to overheating, poor performance, or damage if levels are low or fluids are dirty.
Our service technicians recommend topping off or replacing fluids during a pre-summer check-up and inspecting filters to ensure clean air and fuel are reaching your engine efficiently.
A/C System Check: Comfort You’ll Appreciate
There’s nothing worse than discovering your air conditioning isn’t working when you're already halfway through a sweltering road trip. Before the heat hits, have your A/C system inspected for leaks, pressure problems, or low refrigerant levels.
A quick service visit now can spare you from sticky, uncomfortable drives later.
RELATED ARTICLE: Why Choose Cronin Hillsdale CDJR: Your Trusted Jeep Dealership in Michigan
Road-Trip Ready FAQs
Q. What should I have checked on my car before a road trip?
A. You should check your oil, tires, brakes, battery, fluid levels, lights, and air conditioning. A general inspection by a trusted service center is a smart idea before any long trip.
Q. How do I know if my tires are safe for summer driving?
A. Look for at least 2/32" of tread depth, even wear across all tires, and no visible cracks or bulges. Make sure your tire pressure matches the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Q. Why does summer heat affect my car more than other seasons?
A. Heat puts extra stress on fluids, rubber components like belts and hoses, and your cooling system. Without preparation, your risk of overheating or breakdown increases.
Q. How often should I replace my air filter?
A. Most air filters should be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but that can vary depending on driving conditions. A clogged filter can reduce engine efficiency and A/C performance.
Q. Is it necessary to service my A/C every year?
A. It’s not always required, but an annual inspection can catch leaks or low refrigerant early—saving you from a system failure during the hottest days.
Schedule Your Pre-Summer Service Today
Whether you’re planning a big summer getaway or just want to keep your car running at its best, now is the perfect time for a check-up. Our certified technicians are here to help with expert inspections, honest advice, and top-tier service.
Schedule your auto service appointment today and hit the road with total confidence this summer.