It’s almost summer, and that means it’s the absolute perfect time to make memories by hitting the road.

Before you and yours head out on that summertime road-trip, Leif Johnson Ford has a few tips to keep you safe and make your trip as fun and simple as possible.

1.  Download handy car apps like Breakdown Lane App and Waze.

Waze alerts you of traffic and allows you to interact with others on the road, while Breakdown Lane App will show you an instant map of the closest mechanics and their customer rankings, complete with reviews and ratings from Car Talk website visitors.

2. Don’t over drive, and make frequent stops.

Stop for a short break every few hours to walk around to help stay alert. Also remember that professional truckers aren’t supposed to drive more than 11 hours in a 14-hour workday, and it’s been proven that driving tired is just as dangerous as driving drunk. A tip from your friends at Leif Johnson Ford: Don’t do it!

3. Don’t forget the Basic Repair Kit

Have a repair kit on hand for those DIY fixes. The most important things bring along are a few different sizes of regular and Phillips-head screwdrivers, vice grips, bailing wire to secure an errant muffler and a roll of duct tape.

4. Check the Air Pressure, and don’t forget the spare!

Check tire pressures, spare included,  Before you leave for your trip, check its pressure, and make sure you have everything to install the latter if need be.

5. Remember to frequently check gauges.

Sure, they look nice with all of their pretty colors, but they’re not just there for show. At some point something will go wrong, and there’s a good chance these gauges will let you know before your car is sent into breakdown mode.

6. If you’re going up a steep hill or a mountain, DON’T speed up.

Say what? But really. Your engine is working a lot harder to get your car up a hill, and slowing down just a tad will help you by saving wear and tear, lessening the damage done by overheating, and improving your gas mileage. And don’t forget those steep places without guardrails. Slowing down can be not only beneficial, but even lifesaving, y’all.

7. Don’t be too speedy for too long.

It’s easy to get into a bit of a daze and end up so driving along at a pretty fast pace. Here’s the thing: This is a lot of demand on your car’s engine, and causes your vehicle to work much harder than it would at 55 mph. If you go with the flow (aka speed limit) you’ll end up keeping your engine’s lubricant alive longer and, ergo, your engine’s component alive as well.

And last but not least,

8. Get Your Car Checked Out

Don’t wait until you’re on the road to check that your vehicle is ready for a long trip. Take your vehicle to Leif Johnson Ford to be thoroughly serviced before you go. You can rest assured in knowing that we will make sure your vehicle is summer road-trip ready. Call us at (512) 454-3711 and set up an appointment today. We look forward to your visit!