Keep in touch!

Now that summer has arrived, many Quebecers will hit the road for their vacations in the coming days and weeks. To protect against any surprise breakdowns or mechanical failures – and avoid any associated repair expenses – it’s a good idea to take a few simple precautions now, to ensure peace of mind during your holiday.

Below are some tried-and-true suggestions from auto shop owners who are also Carrus clients.

1. Lift up the hood and do a visual inspection of your vehicle, including checking the following:

Windshield wipers. Working wipers are essential for safe driving. To make your visibility on the road even better, you can opt for anti-rain treatment with Aquapel. Together, these products ensure that you can drive with confidence no matter what the weather conditions are.

The general state and pressure level of your tires. A poorly-inflated tire can make your car unstable when driving; the tire can even explode as a result of overheating. Driving on tires with incorrect pressure can also increase fuel consumption and damage your tires.

The levels of important fluids. Before any long journey, it’s a good idea to check the level of oil in your engine. The oil on the dipstick should leave a mark between the “mini” and “maxi” indicators. Also make sure to fill up your antifreeze, brake fluid and coolant liquid. If you aren’t sure if your levels are high enough to last the length of your trip, check with a professional.

The air filter. It’s a good practice to change your vehicle’s air filter every 20,000 km. To do so, simply remove the filter cover and replace the used filter inside with a new one. Your engine will perform better, and you will lower your fuel consumption.

Headlights and taillights. Don’t forget to make sure that your headlights and turn signals are working properly. A vehicle with inoperative taillights is a hazard to everyone on the road.

If you don’t have the soul of an amateur mechanic (or the skills to match), make an appointment with an expert. Many auto body shops offer vehicle inspections specifically to help drivers get ready for their summer holidays. These professionals will take the time to check that your battery, suspension, brakes and other essentials are working properly.

Once you’ve had your vehicle checked out and had any necessary repairs or adjustments taken care of, it’s time to fill up the gas tank, pack an emergency kit (with items including first aid materials, a flashlight, essential tools and some emergency food), and make sure that you have all of the information you need in the case that you have to contact your roadside-assistance program during your trip.

Happy Holidays!