Why a Trip Inspection Is a Good Idea
April 19, 2020
At Charlie's Fast Lube Sikeston we get a lot of Sikeston drivers asking about vehicle trip preparation. That's a big deal. You could be driving through mountains and deserts in some pretty lonely areas around Missouri, so it's important to know that the vehicle is up to the task and won't leave you stranded.
Smart Sikeston drivers plan ahead for a major road trip – and there are a lot of things to get ready. Where should you start? You could start with the tires. Look them over for tread wear and check to see that they are properly inflated. Take a quick test drive around Sikeston to see if you can feel any vibrations: Are the wheels in balance? Is the car tracking straight? Is the alignment ok? Come to Charlie's Fast Lube Sikeston for a peace-of-mind trip inspection.
2017 E. Malone
Sikeston, Missouri 63801
573-472-1139
http://www.charliesfastlubesikeston.com
The next thing is a full service oil change to make sure all of your fluids are topped off and you have fresh oil for the trip. And if your car has over 75,000 miles/120,000 km, you may consider putting in the high-mileage formulation to clean harmful sludge deposits in the engine.
How about your transmission and brakes? Have you had your transmission and brakes inspected in the last six months?
How are your wiper blades? There's nothing like not being able to get rid of the bug juice on a long road trip away from Sikeston.
Check your owner's manual for any other recommended services, and have Charlie's Fast Lube Sikeston in Sikeston do the multi-point inspection before you head out on your trip.
Consider also having the coolant system serviced at Charlie's Fast Lube Sikeston – you want to stay within the vehicle manufacture’s recommendations. If you're towing a trailer around Missouri you'll want to be keep in mind that you'll be going a long way under severe conditions.
A lot of Sikeston drivers overlook severe conditions like towing, Missouri summer heat or driving on dirt roads. Plan ahead for your next road trip – Charlie's Fast Lube Sikeston wants you to get there and back.
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