Preparing Your Car for a Summer Road Trip

<img src="https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/dcr-apis/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/summer%20car.jpeg" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: auto"/> Summer is one of the busiest travel seasons in California—especially for Bay Area drivers who are heading to the coast, the mountains or wine country. Before loading up and hitting the road, make sure your vehicle is ready for long drives, hot temperatures and heavy traffic. Some things are obvious. You probably know to visit a <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/bay-area-auto-oil-change" target="_self">local oil change shop</a> before a planned vacation. Or if your car has any physical damage, like a loose bumper or a hood that jiggles when you drive, an <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/bay-area-auto-body" target="_self">auto body shop</a> can make your drive smoother. But a little extra preventive maintenance can help reduce the risk of breakdowns, improve safety and make summer travel more enjoyable for everyone who’s along for the ride. Here’s what you need to know: Why Summer Driving Can Be Tough on Vehicles Summer heat creates extra stress on many parts of a vehicle. Long highway drives, stop-and-go traffic, steep grades and high temperatures all increase wear on critical systems. Problems that may seem minor during everyday commutes can become major issues during a road trip. For example, overheating is one of the most common summer travel problems. Cooling systems work harder during hot weather, especially when you’re driving through inland areas where temperatures often climb above 90 degrees. A <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/bay-area-auto-repair/" target="_self">local auto repair shop</a> can inspect your car and identify leaks, worn hoses, coolant issues or <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/bay-area-auto-transmissions" target="_self">transmission problems</a> before they leave you stranded. Tires also deserve close attention before summer travel. Underinflated or worn tires are more vulnerable to blowouts during long drives on hot pavement. Always have a <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/bay-area-auto-tires-wheels-alignment" target="_self">local tire shop</a> check your tire pressure, tread depth and overall tire condition before a road trip. Checking wheel alignment before extended highway driving is also a smart move, particularly if you often drive over potholes or uneven roads. Brakes, Batteries and Electrical Systems Summer road trips often involve mountain driving, crowded freeways and long periods behind the wheel, all of which strain braking systems. If you notice squeaking, vibration, delayed stopping or warning lights, have your <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/bay-area-auto-muffler-brakes" target="_self">brakes inspected</a> before you embark on your trip. Battery and <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/bay-area-auto-repair-electrical" target="_self">electrical system problems</a> are also common during summer. Heat shortens battery life and affects charging performance, especially in older vehicles. A quick inspection of your car’s battery, alternator and electrical connections may help prevent starting problems during your trip. Pay attention to warning lights or unusual performance issues before traveling and while you’re on the road. Modern vehicles rely heavily on onboard computer systems, and <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/bay-area-auto-diagnostics" target="_self">local auto diagnostics experts</a> can often identify hidden problems before they become expensive repairs. Windshields and Visibility Clear visibility is critical during summer driving, particularly when you’re traveling through bright sunlight, coastal fog or heavy traffic. Small windshield chips or cracks can suddenly grow in size due to temperature changes and road vibration. Have an <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/bay-area-auto-glass" target="_self">auto glass shop</a> take care of these issues before your trip to prevent larger problems and improve driving safety. Plus, your insurance may pay for most or all of the chip repair costs. It’s also a good idea to inspect windshield wipers, exterior lights and the air conditioning system before leaving town. Comfortable cabin temperatures and good visibility make long summer drives significantly easier and safer. Smog and Emissions Concerns California drivers are familiar with the importance of vehicle emissions systems. If your “check engine” light is on or your vehicle is due for testing soon, visit a <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/bay-area-auto-smog" target="_self">local smog shop</a> or emissions specialist before your trip to avoid delays or unexpected repairs. Find Local Auto Shops in Your Area No matter where you live in the Greater Bay Area, Diamond Certified automotive service companies are ready to help. These companies are independently rated <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/how-it-works/" target="_self">Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise</a> and have passed our rigorous rating and certification process. They’re also backed by the <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/performance-guarantee/" target="_self">Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee</a>. Alameda County Auto Shops <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/alameda-auto-care-center/" target="_self">Alameda Auto Care Center</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/automobile-collision-center/" target="_self">Automobile Collision Center</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/coelhos-body-repair-auto-sales-inc/" target="_self">Coelho’s Body Repair & Auto Sales, Inc.</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/dublin-car-tek/" target="_self">Dublin Car Tek</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/fremont-foreign-auto/" target="_self">Fremont Foreign Auto</a> Contra Costa County Auto Shops <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/delta-transmission/" target="_self">Delta Transmission</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/dublin-car-tek/" target="_self">Dublin Car Tek</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/letcher-brothers-auto-repair/" target="_self">Letcher Brothers Auto Repair</a> Marin County Auto Shops <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/msi-automotive/" target="_self">MSI Automotive</a> San Francisco Auto Shops <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/cal-auto-body/" target="_self">Cal Auto Body</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/faxon-garage/" target="_self">Faxon Garage</a> San Mateo County Auto Shops <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/cal-auto-body/" target="_self">Cal Auto Body</a> Santa Clara County Auto Shops <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/a1-performance-auto-repair/" target="_self">A1 Performance Auto Repair</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/auto-collision-experts/" target="_self">Auto Collision Experts</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/autoshield-collision/" target="_self">AutoShield Collision</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/b2-perfection-auto-body/" target="_self">B2 Perfection Auto Body</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/renson-automotive/" target="_self">Renson Automotive</a> Sonoma County Auto Shops <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/acurit-auto-repair/" target="_self">Acur-it Auto Repair</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/carreras-auto-body/" target="_self">Carreras Auto Body</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/report/reliable-glass/" target="_self">Reliable Glass</a>