Summer is the prime season for road-tripping, but for the smoothest and safest vacation, drivers should make sure their vehicles are ready for the miles ahead. Shawn Roberts, General Manager of Volvo Cars of Charlottesville, gives some expert tips on how to prepare for a long drive.
Before heading out on a summer road trip, what are the most important things drivers should check on their vehicles?
Before any long summer drive, drivers should focus on the basics that affect safety and reliability most. That includes checking tire pressures and tread depth, engine oil level, coolant levels, brakes, battery health, windshield wipers, and all exterior lights. Summer heat puts extra strain on tires and cooling systems, so it’s especially important to make sure the vehicle isn’t overdue for maintenance. I also recommend checking that the spare tire, jack, and emergency kit are in good condition before leaving. A quick inspection before the trip can prevent a much bigger problem on the road.
What’s one maintenance issue people commonly overlook that can turn into a major problem on a long drive?
Spare tires. People should double-check the tire pressure in the spare and be sure they have all the tools and jack present to be able to change the tire. Oftentimes, spare tires get overlooked, and many times I have seen spares that are flat in the trunk when needed. This can turn your trip into a nightmare.
Tires play a huge role in road trip safety. What should drivers know about tire pressure, tread, and overall tire health before traveling?
Tires are one of the most important safety components on any vehicle because they’re the only part actually touching the road. Drivers should check tire pressure when the tires are cold and make sure it matches the manufacturer’s recommended PSI, not the maximum number listed on the tire itself. Underinflated tires can overheat in summer temperatures, reduce fuel economy, and increase the risk of blowouts.
Tread depth matters too, especially in summer storms where hydroplaning can become a serious hazard. If the tire tread is getting low or the wear is uneven, the tires should be inspected before traveling. Drivers should also look for cracks, bulges, or signs of dry rot, especially on older tires that may still have tread left but are aging out.
Modern vehicles have so much advanced technology built in. Which features can make road trips safer, easier, or more comfortable for families?
Modern safety and driver-assist technology can make a huge difference on long trips. Features like adaptive cruise control, pilot assist, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking can help reduce driver fatigue and improve awareness on the highway.
For families, systems like rear-seat reminders, built-in navigation with live traffic updates, 360-degree cameras, and smartphone integration also make traveling easier and less stressful. Even something as simple as a good driver-assistance package can make long-distance driving more comfortable and safer, especially during heavy summer traffic.
How can drivers tell the difference between a quick fix they can handle themselves and a sign they should bring the vehicle to a professional before traveling?
Simple maintenance items like topping off washer fluid, replacing wiper blades, checking tire pressure, or changing an air filter are usually manageable for a lot of drivers. But if the vehicle is showing warning lights, making unusual noises, vibrating, overheating, leaking fluid, or pulling while driving, those are signs it should be inspected professionally before a long trip.
A good rule is that if the issue affects braking, steering, tires, engine temperature, or drivability, it’s worth having it checked by a technician before getting on the highway. It’s always better to deal with a repair proactively than risk a breakdown hours from home.
If you could give drivers one piece of expert advice to help avoid breakdowns and stressful travel delays this summer, what would it be?
Don’t wait until the day before your trip to think about maintenance and getting the vehicle to the shop. The best way to avoid breakdowns is to have the vehicle inspected early enough to address problems before they become urgent. Small issues almost always give warning signs first, whether it’s a weak battery, worn tires, low fluids, or unusual sounds. Taking care of those items ahead of time not only improves safety but also makes the trip a lot less stressful when the vehicle is ready to go and has been assessed days before the trip.