(NAPSI)—Americans always hit the roadways in great numbers in the summer. A study by the Travel Industry Association of America reports that two-thirds of employed travelers spend at least one-half of their vacation time traveling. With all of this time behind the wheel and as gas prices rise to the lofty points they reached last summer, people will be looking for ways to reduce how often they have to “fill it up” and avoid a breakdown along the road that would spoil the summer fun, whether on the way to the beach or a vacation destination.
Where the car meets the road—good place to start
Check the tires. Make sure they are wearing evenly. If not, the suspension may need adjusting. Check the tire pressure. Match the load rate (found in owner’s manual or inside the driver’s side door) with the estimated weight of your family and the luggage you’ll bring on a long trip.
To help prevent a costly breakdown and to increase fuel efficiency, have all fluids, filters, hoses and belts checked, and replaced if necessary, by professional technicians like those at Jiffy Lube service centers. Most manufacturers recommend changing the oil every 3,000 miles; make sure your estimated round-trip mileage doesn’t exceed the reading indicated for the next change. Make sure the air filter is clean—it’s the “lungs” of your car. Make sure wiper blades are checked in case of sudden summer thunderstorms.
The owner’s manual and the top of the oil fill cap should have the viscosity of oil recommended for your car. Jiffy Lube’s Signature Service offers several separate service platforms, including specific types of oil, based on the type of vehicle and manner of usage.
Test your air conditioning before you leave for a long trip. Also, make sure all turning signals and the brakes are all fully functional before heading out.
Check that a vehicle emergency kit is stocked with such important items as flashlight, fresh batteries, first aid kit, highway flares, battery jumper cables, work gloves and such basic tools as a pair of pliers, standard screwdriver and rubber hammer. Non-perishable foods and water, both portable and drinkable, are other travel essentials.
Lastly, when packing, don’t overload the car. Excess weight makes the engine work harder, using up more gas. Try not to put too much baggage if any on the roof as it’ll create aerodynamic drag and have a negative effect on mileage. Bring books or hand-held electronic games for the kids to keep them occupied on the long trip. If you’re bringing a pet, make sure to check the policies of hotels along the way.
On the Open Road
When you head out for an extended stay over, try not to exceed the speed limit. Speeding offers poor fuel economy. Also, avoid dramatic accelerated starts and excessive idling as they both use up gas.
If your car overheats, don’t open the radiator cap until the car has cooled down; hot fluid could spill out and cause serious skin damage.
Check your tire pressure during your trip. For every 10 degrees the climate fluctuates, your tires lose one pound of pressure. Keeping them properly inflated saves gas. The less rubber that actually meets the road, the more efficiently the car will operate.
If you are not familiar with the roads to your destination, take the extra time to study a map. And carry the same map on your journey. Wear your seatbelts and make sure small children are securely fastened. Think about leaving early for your vacation like right before sunrise to get a jump on rush hour traffic. Take breaks to stretch those muscles. Stop at points of interest to keep long trips exciting and educational. Getting there, as the saying goes, should be “half the fun!”
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