After a long hibernation or relocation, it's time to take your summer wheels out of storage and onto the Idaho roads! Whether you have a fun convertible, a sports car, or a vintage model, getting your prized summer car back on the road can be a challenge. Don't worry, though! We've got you covered with some top tips to ensure your ride is smooth and scratch-free.
Top 5 Tips to Get Your Summer Ride Ready
1. Survey the Scene
Get down and look under the car for any obvious fluid leaks. Look under the hood for animal nests while you're at it. Trust us, you don't want to take a road trip with a family of squirrels! Especially if you already have that family – wink, wink.
2. Check for Wear
Examine the hoses and belts to ensure no cracks or signs of fraying. If you find any, it's time for a replacement. Remember, a belt snapping on the highway is guaranteed to ruin a perfect summer day.
3. Test Your Charge
Check that battery terminals are free of corrosion. Corroded terminals can decrease your battery's life and performance. Polish them with a little hot water, baking soda, and a toothbrush if needed. Who knew your car could benefit from a spa treatment?
4. Do a Walk-Around
Check the sidewalls of your tires for cracks or damage and ensure they are inflated correctly. Look for the sticker on your driver-side door to find your tires' proper inflation level. Use a tire pressure gauge to test them or have an auto technician do a check.
5. Start the Engine
If it cranks slowly, there is a good chance your battery is nearing the end of its life. Let the car idle for two to three minutes to allow all the fluids to circulate again before driving. Check all the exterior and interior lights to make sure they're working. After all, the only light show you want this summer is fireworks or starry nights, not your car's warning lights.
Bonus Tip: Circle the Block
Go for a short ride with the windows down and the radio off. Listen for any new or unusual noises. If your brakes are coated in a thin film of rust, you might feel pulsation and hear a grinding sound at first, but this should go away after a few minutes of driving.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Once you've followed these tips, you'll be ready to take your summer car on its first adventure of the season. But before you do, bring your sports or luxury car to Anderson's Autobody for paintless dent repair and tinted windows. We might not handle mechanical inspections, but we can make sure your ride looks flawless. And if you need a recommendation for a great local mechanic, we've got you covered—because you don't want to be the one sightseeing from the side of the road!
If you need paint or body work done, schedule your appointment today and ensure a season of worry-free drives! We do free cost estimates and will have solid numbers emailed to you within 24-48 hours max – sometimes sooner.