Road trips in spring are always a great idea, and your Volvo should be the car of choice for this journey. However, before you embark on that journey, there are some things you need to do to make sure your car is in good condition.

When preparing your Volvo for a spring road trip, you should also carry out some quick inspections on various systems, do some basic maintenance, and pack appropriately. Here is a brief checklist that you can follow to get your Volvo ready for the exciting springtime road trip.

Springtime Maintenance Tips

Tire Check

Regular tire maintenance is very important for safety and performance of your Volvo. Ensure that the tire pressure is correct to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Low tire pressure decreases fuel efficiency and wears the tires out unevenly. Checking the tread depth is important especially to ensure that it is adequate. Tires that are worn out are less safe especially when the roads are wet.

You can use a tread depth gauge or the penny test by inserting a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down; if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires. If your Volvo is pulling to one side, or you feel vibrations, then the alignment and balancing should be done by a professional.

Brake Inspection

Brakes are among the most crucial safety systems of any vehicle. It is recommended that before you embark on the trip, they should be well maintained. Ensure the brake pads are not worn. If they are thin or make a squealing noise, you should have them changed. Also, check the state of the rotors to see if they are worn out. Check that the brake fluid level is right and the fluid appears fresh. If it is dirty then it is advisable to change it.

Fluid Top Up

Fluids are critical for the proper functioning of your Volvo. Ensure that all fluids are in the correct quantity and as much as possible in good condition. Look at the engine oil level and its color. If the oil is dark or dirty, change it, using the oil type recommended in your owner’s manual. Check that the coolant level is right and the coolant is clear.

Put more oil in if required and check the hoses for signs of leakage or signs of wear. Look at the level of the transmission fluid and its coloration. If it is low or discolored, then it should be replaced. Check the washer fluid reservoir and make sure that it has enough fluid in it and check the operation of the sprayers.

Battery Health

Your battery is another essential part that should be examined. A dead battery is one calamity that can strike very fast and ruin any trip. See if the battery is in good condition to prevent ‘jump starts’ in the middle of the road. A fully charged battery should read around 12. 6 volts or higher. Check on the battery terminals for signs of oxidation. Wash them if needed with a solution of baking soda and water. If your battery is over three years old, it is advisable to have it checked by a professional or get it replaced to enhance safety.

HVAC Inspection

Comfort is also important in a cabin when going on a road trip. Ensure your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is in good condition. Check the functionality of the air conditioning system to see if it can cool the cabin to the desired state. Make sure the heater is working properly and heats the cabin to the required temperature. If it is dirty, then replace the cabin air filter to make sure that the air being supplied inside your Volvo is clean.

Come And See Why We Are The Best Volvo Maintenance Shop In Mill Valley

At Masters European & Japanese Auto Repair, we are your partner for taking proper care of Volvos and other European and Asian automobiles in Mill Valley, CA. We have been in operation since 1978 and we have always made sure that the safety standard in our garage is well maintained.

If you need help to check your Volvo car in preparation for the coming spring season, we can assist you. Our mechanics are very thorough when it comes to checking the vehicle and carrying out the repairs. We also serve drivers from Corte Madera, Larkspur, Sausalito, and Tiburon in California. Contact us on (415) 383-2382 for the best Volvo service.