Franklin, Tennessee is a fantastic home base for spring road trips. The Smoky Mountains are about three hours east. Nashville’s airport puts almost anywhere within reach. And the Natchez Trace Parkway is practically in our backyard for a scenic weekend drive. But nothing ruins a road trip faster than a breakdown that a little preparation could have prevented.
Before you load up the car and head out this spring, here’s what we recommend checking:
Oil and fluids. Make sure your oil is fresh and all fluid levels are topped off — coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Long highway miles in warmer temps stress your engine more than city driving.
Tires. Check pressure and tread depth on all four tires plus your spare. A blowout on the interstate is dangerous and expensive. If your spare is one of those small temporary tires, know its speed and distance limits before you rely on it.
Brakes. If you’ve been hearing any noise from your brakes, don’t head out on a mountain road until they’ve been inspected. Brake fade on a long downhill is a scary situation.
Lights. Walk around your vehicle and confirm all lights are working — headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals.
Battery. Have it tested if it’s more than three years old. Breakdowns in unfamiliar places are far more stressful than a quick battery test at home base.
Come see the team at Franklin Automotive before your next adventure. A pre-trip inspection is one of the best investments you can make for a stress-free spring drive.
