It is sweet summertime, where families and friends get together to take road trips and vacations. But is your vehicle prepared for the unexpected? The Reed Factor has a few quick tips and suggestions to consider before you hit the open road.
Prepare your vehicle: Make sure your tire pressure, A/C filter, oil levels, battery and more are all at the top of their game. Not sure where to go? Here is a quick tip for our Houston area friends, Quick Lane in Spring, Humble and Porter give free battery and brake checks! Dallas friends, our Quick Lane at Randall Reed’s Prestige Ford in Garland, Texas and Quick Lane at Park Cities Ford also has great offers like a free battery and brake checks! In the McKinney, Texas area, Service Xpress at McKinneyVw.com also services all makes and models. They even offer a World Class Service Valet that lets you get service without leaving your home or office.
Know your route: Program your destination into your vehicle before you take off. Did you know Ford and Lincoln vehicles are equipped with WAZE navigation?
Watch the weather and road conditions: Be aware of hazards and construction zones. Visibility is key when strong rains and bad weather hit. The Federal Highway Administration’s is one resource you can use to plan your departure.
Always be prepared: It is better to be safe than sorry. You should always be prepared for a flat, dead battery, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Watch your speed: Think before you speed. Traveling in the summer is when the roads are the most packed. Speeding can increase your risk of collision. Plus, state police will be out with a radar ready for the rule breakers.
Tips to save fuel on the road: Long trips with a constant speed are the best way to boost your MPG score.
- You should avoid aggressive driving. Constant speed changes and quick, uneven stops and starts can waste a lot of fuel. Being easier on the gas pedal can improve your gas mileage by as much as 33%.
- Set your cruise control. It’s almost always more fuel-efficient to travel at a constant speed whenever possible.
- If you can, try not to idle. It’s more fuel-efficient to turn off your engine while waiting in the car.
- Avoid speeding. Gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 MPH.
In case of an emergency, keep a cell phone and charger with you at all times. AAA and many other companies offer smartphone applications that enable motorists to request help without making a phone call.
Be aware! You may not be able to control other drivers’ actions on the road, but you can prepare, slow down and take actions to help keep yourself and others as safe as possible.
The Reed Factor wishes you a sweet summertime! If you need new tires, automotive service or are ready for a new car, truck or SUV visit ReedHasIt.com.
