Heading out on a road trip? Arlington Heights Ford dealership shares tips for getting your vehicle road trip ready

Arlington Heights Ford dealership shares tips for getting your vehicle road trip ready.

Submitted by John Guido Jr., Arlington Heights Ford

According to a new study, two-thirds of Americans are reluctant to fly. Instead, they're taking to their cars, making 2021 the Year of the Road Trip.

Just last month, Governor Pritzker announced a tourism campaign, "Time for Me to Drive,"encouraging Illinois residents to get in their vehicles this summer and discover all that the state has to offer. As part of the effort, Enjoy Illinois, the state's official tourism site, shared dozens of road trip ideas for people who want to safely tour the Land of Lincoln.

A quick vehicle assessment before you hit the road could save hours of headache when you're away from home. Here are our top seven vehicle maintenance issues to address and resolve before your summer road trip.

• Exhaust System: Have your vehicle's exhaust system checked before a long trip. If you've noticed you're filling up your gas tank more than normal, power to your electrical systems is inconsistent, or vents aren't as powerful as normal, you'll want to have this reviewed by a certified mechanic.

• Wiper Blades: With inconsistent Midwest weather a likely factor, make sure you inspect wiper blades that may have been damaged over the winter. Any knicks or loose rubber could signal a problem, so best to replace it before heading out on a road trip.

• Battery: Look at your vehicle's battery for tight connections and evidence of corrosion, especially if it is more than two years old. Batteries contain corrosive acid that may leak if the connectors are forced off, so if you see signs of corrosion, consider visiting a service professional.

• Steering and Suspension: Beyond an inconvenience, steering and suspension issues be dangerous. If you notice loose parts, bushings that are worn, or if your vehicle is swaying or bouncing, chances are your vehicle needs attention. A trained professional can inspect the steering and suspension and get you back on the road quickly.

• Tires: Before any road trip - and about once a month - check the depth of your tire tread using the penny test. Place a penny inside the tread, turn Lincoln's head toward the tire, and if it disappears, your tread is likely in good shape. Also grab your pressure gauge and fill up your tires before hitting the road.

• Brakes: Bad breaks can put a damper on even the shortest of road trips. Check for warning signs your breaks may be wearing, including grinding, squeaking, steering-wheel shake, or sponginess. If you identify those, head to a service provider right away.

• Interior: The easiest thing you can do to improve your travels is to give your vehicle an overall clean and declutter. Remove old winter gear (hello, ice scraper) and make sure you're stocked with an emergency kit with, at minimum, water, snacks and flashlights. A good scrub can make you more comfortable during your drive and enhance the entire road trip experience.

Whether you're heading to Lake County or Springfield, having your vehicle serviced will give you peace of mind and help you spend more time with family and friends and less time in a repair shop. And in all cases, if you're not sure how to inspect your vehicle, visit a dealership that is certified to work on your make or model. That's what they're there for.

John Guido Jr. is the general manager of Arlington Heights Ford in Arlington Heights.