Many people love to take advantage of the warmer weather and longer days during the summer and go to concerts, take vacations, and go on long road trips. But how should you prepare your car for summer? You don’t want to get stranded along a highway, so it’s vital that you take some extra time to prep your car in advance.

Here are 10 steps to take to ensure your car is ready to take on your road trip this summer.
1. Thoroughly Inspect Your Tires
Since your car will likely be putting on a lot of mileage during your road trip, you should check that your tires are in the ideal condition to last. There are a few tricks to use to see if your tires need replacing or attention.
- Spare Tire: Many cars come with a spare tire in case of an emergency. If your car has a spare, check that it has proper inflation and it’s in good condition for use.
- Tire Pressure: When your tires are cool, check the tire pressure. Look up the manufacturer’s specifications, either in the manual, online, or on the driver’s side door jamb.
- Tread Depth: A useful tip is to insert a quarter upside down in the tread grooves on your tires. If you can see George Washington’s head, then you need to get your tires replaced.
Many auto repair shops, like Paskett Auto, will also sell tires and do installation. The technicians can help prepare your car for summer trips.
2. Ensure Your Brakes Are in Optimal Condition
Your brakes are there for your safety and the safety of others. If you notice grinding sounds or vibrations when you brake, then you need to get your brakes checked out. Our technicians at Paskett can assess the quality of your brakes, including the pads, rotors, drums, and shoes.

3. Test Your Battery’s Health
Your car’s battery can suffer in the heat, especially if you are on long stretches of highway in direct sun for hours. Ensure that your car’s battery terminals are clean and the connections are secure. Especially if it’s over three years old, it’s important to test its quality before roadtripping.
4. Check & Top Off Essential Fluids
For the best performance for your vehicle, check the levels of the following fluids to prepare your car for summer. The main ones you’ll want to take a look at are:
- Brake, Transmission, & Power Steering Fluids
- Coolant
- Engine Oil
If they are running low, then go to your local auto care shop to top them off or replace them.
5. Replace Wiper Blades & Refill Windshield Washer Fluid
In the summer, you can often get surprised by a sudden shower. Make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition and replace them if they aren’t clearing the windshield effectively or streak.
Also, fill the windshield washer reservoir with the proper fluid so you can be sure to clear away any insects or debris from your road trip.

6. Inspect Belts & Hoses
Another way to prepare your car for summer road trips is to check the quality of your belts and hoses. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Belts: For older belts, look for fraying, glazing, or cracking. For more modern belts, you should aim to replace them every 60,000 miles.
- Hoses: Check for leaks, brittleness, or bulges, and ensure clamps are secure.
7. Test Your Air Conditioning System
You don’t want to find yourself in the middle of a road trip only to find out that your AC system doesn’t work. Ensure a professional can take a look at it before you go.
8. Assemble an Emergency Kit
It’s always important to be prepared in case of an emergency. Here are some basic things to keep in the back of your car:
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Rain poncho & gloves
- Basic tool kit & duct tape
- First-aid supplies
- Drinking water & non-perishable snacks
- Emergency flares or reflectors
- Jumper cables

9. Plan for Regular Maintenance Stops
It’s a good idea for long car rides to schedule some periodic stops along the way. This will help give you a break and ensure your car gets time to rest.
10. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Even when you stay on top of personal checks, it’s important to schedule a professional inspection so they can catch any issues that you may have missed. At Paskett Auto Care, our technicians are well-equipped to check and prepare your car for summer trips.
Why Choose Paskett Auto Care?
Paskett offers comprehensive auto services to help you feel more confident when you’re on the road. Ready to prepare your car for summer? Schedule an appointment today!