Symptoms
- Planning a long road trip soon
- Haven't had the car checked in a while
- Want to avoid a breakdown far from home
Likely causes
- CommonCooling system not checked before extended highway driving in heatHeat and sustained highway speeds put more load on the cooling system than typical daily driving.
- CommonTires not inspected for tread and pressure before a long tripWorn or underinflated tires are more likely to overheat and blow out on long hot highway drives.
- PossibleAC not tested before hot weatherA weak or failing AC system is more noticeable and more urgent on a long summer trip.
What to do
- Check coolant level and condition, and confirm the mixture is appropriate (not overly diluted) for hot weather driving.
- Inspect tire tread depth and sidewalls for cracking or bulges, and check pressure including the spare.
- Test the AC on a warm day before leaving to confirm it blows consistently cold air.
- Check the serpentine belt and visible hoses for cracking, since a failure mid-trip is far more inconvenient than at home.
- Top off or change the oil if it's due soon, since long highway trips put good mileage on quickly.
- Pack a basic emergency kit: jumper cables, a flashlight, water, and a phone charger, in case of a roadside issue.
Tools and parts
- Tire pressure gauge
When to call a pro
If you find any belt cracking, low coolant with no obvious cause, or AC that isn't cooling, have it fixed before a long trip rather than during one.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.