As summer approaches, Truckee & Lake Tahoe drivers are preparing for road trips. Here is some advice from your trusted local auto repair and maintenance experts at Quality Automotive Servicing in Truckee CA.
Is Your Vehicle Up For the Challenge?
When it comes to driving on mountain roads with a heavily loaded vehicle or one that is towing a trailer, it is important to prepared for the extra stress placed on your engine and components. Let the experts at Quality Automotive Servicing located at 11500 Donner Pass Road in Truckee help you and your vehicle be up for the challenge.
Whether you're headed out locally with your boat or planning on putting down some miles towing a trailer, your truck, SUV or adventure van will benefit from some preventative measures and a checkup to ensure that it is "tow ready" and in good condition to take on the extra weight.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of preventative maintenance for trucks & SUV's that will be towing trailers this summer, and what drivers need to do to prepare for a summer trip towing a trailer.
Heavily loaded vehicles and those towing trailers work harder out on the road and require more maintenance. Additionally, since you may travel far from home, it's wise to have your vehicle serviced and let the service advisor know you will be taking a trip. The last thing you need is a preventable issue like a worn serpentine belt stranding you on the side of the road like the story below.
At Quality Automotive Servicing a certified expert will rack and thoroughly inspect the vehicle to assure your safe travels. We can see what you can't so it's important to take this step before you depart. Our experts advise a visit at least three weeks before planned departure date so any issues can be addressed and your trip is not delayed.
Avoid Troubles Out of the Road
Nothing is worse than troubles on a vacation. You can avoid this and keep you and your family safe with service from the award-winning team at Quality Automotive Servicing. A comprehensive ServicePlus summer checkup, diagnosis of that check engine light, fresh oil and filter and complete inspection while on the rack will prepare you for the road ahead.
Winte 2023 Took A Toll On Local Vehicles
There is not doubt that this winter 2023 was harsh and took a toll on your car, truck, SUV or adventure van. Prepared for summer travel and get the suspension and underbody of your vehicle inspected for damage. Don't wait for trouble to find you out on the road. Plan and prepare with your partner in auto care, Quality Automotive Servicing at 11500 Donner Pass Road in Truckee, CA
Some of the areas that will be inspected during the ServicePlus summer checkup include the brakes, tires, suspension, and electrical systems. It's also wise to change the oil before leaving if the vehicle has been sitting for an extended time. The Quality mechanic will also check other fluids such as the transmission and differential. Any necessary repairs or replacements will be done to ensure that your vehicle is in top condition and ready for the road.
In addition to a thorough checkup by a qualified mechanic, there are also some things that drivers can do to prepare for a summer trip towing a trailer. Here are some tips to help you get ready for your summer adventure:
1. Check your trailer: Before hooking up your trailer, inspect it to make sure that everything is in good condition. Check the tires, lights, brakes, and hitch to ensure that they are working properly.
2. Distribute weight evenly: Proper weight distribution is essential when towing a trailer. Make sure that the weight is evenly distributed and that the trailer is level. This will help to ensure stability and prevent swaying.
3. Know your vehicle’s towing capacity: Make sure that your vehicle is capable of towing the weight of your trailer. Check the owner’s manual or consult with a qualified mechanic to determine the maximum weight that your vehicle can safely tow.
4. Practice driving with a trailer: If you’re new to towing a trailer, it’s important to practice before hitting the road. Practice turning, backing up, and braking with your trailer in a safe and empty parking lot.
5. Be prepared: Pack an emergency kit that includes a first aid kit, flashlight, and extra food and water. Make sure that you have a spare tire and the tools necessary to change it.
Real Story of Trouble on the Road
I recently heard a story of a friend that was stranded on the roadside for 12 hours when the serpentine belt broke of their Ford F250. They were towing a horse trailer and many people stopped to help and give them assistance, even offering hay for the horses. Although it was wonderful that everyone was so helpful, this could have been avoided with an inspection of the truck before leaving town. At Quality Automotive Servicing in Truckee we can see things that you can't. We know the types of troubles vehicle incur at specific mileage intervals. This friend could have saved alot of trouble out on the road and money having the vehicle towed had the vehicle been service and inspected at Quality Automotive Servicing.
Towing a trailer can be a fun and exciting way to travel during the summer months. However, it’s important to take the necessary preventative measures and ensure that your vehicle is in good condition before hitting the road. A thorough checkup by a qualified mechanic and following the above tips will help to ensure that your summer adventure is safe and enjoyable. Contact Quality Automotive Servicing in Truckee to schedule your ServicePlus summer checkup today. With QAS you can be sure that your vehicle is running well and will get you safely to your destination. Safe travels and have fantastic summer!
Thank you for choosing Quality Automotive Servicing in Truckee for all of your automotive needs. We Go The Distance with our service so you can go the distance out on the road. We look forward to helping you enjoy the open road this summer!