The holiday season is a wonderful time to travel and visit loved ones, but before setting out on a road trip, it's crucial to make sure your vehicle is up to the task. At the service center of Poage Chrysler Dodge Jeep® Ram FIAT in Hannibal, MO, our skilled technicians have created a checklist to help you get your car ready for a safe and enjoyable holiday journey.
Pre-Holiday Road Trip Vehicle Checklist
To guarantee your vehicle is in top shape for holiday travel, schedule a service appointment at Poage CDJRF a couple of weeks before your departure. Our experienced technicians can perform the following essential maintenance tasks:
- Battery Test: Cold temperatures can take a toll on your car's battery. Our technicians can test your battery to make sure it has a strong charge and can withstand the demands of winter driving.
- Tire Inspection: Proper tire inflation and tread depth are vital for maintaining traction on wet or snowy roads. We can check your tires and, if necessary, recommend winter tires for better performance in harsh conditions.
- Wiper Blade Replacement: Worn or damaged wiper blades can impair visibility in bad weather. If your blades are leaving streaks or skipping, we can replace them with new ones to keep your windshield clear.
- Fluid Check and Top-Off: Our technicians can inspect your vehicle's fluid levels, including washer fluid, oil, coolant, and brake fluid. We can top off any low fluids and recommend changes based on your manufacturer's maintenance schedule.
Hannibal drivers can take advantage of our current service specials to save on essential maintenance services before their holiday road trips. Trust the experts at Poage CDJRF to get your vehicle ready for a worry-free journey.
Essential Winter Emergency Kit Items
Even the most well-maintained vehicles can encounter unexpected issues during winter travel. To prepare for potential emergencies, Palmyra, MO, residents should pack a winter emergency kit in their vehicle's trunk or cargo area. Some essential items to include are:
- Warm blankets and extra gloves
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Jumper cables
- First-aid kit
- Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
- Sand, road salt, or kitty litter for added traction
Many of these emergency kit essentials can be found at local stores or online retailers. By keeping a well-stocked kit in your vehicle, you'll have peace of mind during your holiday travels.
Safe Winter Driving Tips for Monroe City Drivers
In addition to having a well-maintained vehicle and a stocked emergency kit, it's important for Monroe City, MO, drivers to practice safe winter driving habits. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Slow down and drive cautiously on slippery roads
- Avoid using cruise control on icy or snow-covered surfaces
- Increase your following distance to allow more time for stopping
- Brake gently to prevent skidding or sliding
- When possible, avoid stopping on hills, as inertia will help you reach the top
Get Your Vehicle Road-Trip Ready at Poage CDJRF
Before setting out on your holiday road trip, make sure to have your vehicle inspected and serviced at Poage Chrysler Dodge Jeep® Ram FIAT in Hannibal, MO. Our skilled technicians are prepared to make sure that your car is in top condition, giving you the confidence to enjoy a safe and stress-free journey with your loved ones.
Quincy, IL, drivers can trust the experts at Poage CDJRF to provide exceptional service and advice for all their winter driving needs. Schedule your pre-trip maintenance appointment today and take advantage of our current service specials to save on essential services. With a well-maintained vehicle and a little preparation, you'll be ready to head out on a memorable holiday road trip.