Planning a beach getaway? Whether you’re headed to Ocean City, the Delaware shoreline, or a quiet weekend spot by the bay, the last thing you want is a car problem to cut your trip short. Prepping your vehicle before you hit the road can save you time, stress, and even the cost of emergency repairs when you’re miles away from home.
A simple pre-trip inspection helps make sure everything’s ready—from tires and brakes to fluids and battery health—so you can enjoy the drive just as much as the destination.
Start with the Tires
Tires are easy to overlook, but they’re critical to safe travel—especially if you’ll be driving long distances or carrying a full load of passengers and beach gear. Check the tire pressure first. It should match the recommended levels printed on the sticker inside the driver’s doorframe. Proper inflation improves fuel economy and helps prevent blowouts.
While you’re at it, inspect the tread depth and look for uneven wear, cuts, or bulges. Don’t forget the spare—if your car has one—and make sure it’s inflated and in good condition. If your vehicle uses a tire repair kit instead, double-check that the kit is intact and not expired.
Test the Battery
Summer heat can be hard on car batteries, especially older ones. If your battery is more than three years old or has shown signs of slow starting recently, it’s smart to test it before a long trip. A weak battery might still work today but could leave you stranded tomorrow, especially after sitting parked in the sun all weekend.
Corroded terminals, loose connections, and visible swelling on the battery casing are other red flags. Replacing the battery now is far better than calling for a jump-start from a beach parking lot.
Check Fluids and Top Them Off
Long trips mean long hours for your engine—and that puts extra demand on fluids. Make sure your oil is at the right level and that it’s clean. If your oil change is due soon, go ahead and get it done before you leave.
Next, check the coolant level and condition. Coolant keeps your engine from overheating, and it’s especially important during stop-and-go traffic or on hot summer days. Also, inspect brake fluid, transmission fluid (if accessible), and windshield washer fluid.
Each of these plays a small but important role in keeping your car safe and running smoothly.
Inspect Brakes and Steering
If your brakes have been squeaking, grinding, or feeling soft lately, now’s the time to get them checked. Brakes that work fine around town might not perform as well on long downhill grades or in heavy traffic.
During a pre-trip inspection, our technicians will check your brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels. Steering and suspension components should also be inspected to make sure there’s no excessive play, worn-out bushings, or leaks that could lead to handling issues during your trip.
Don’t Forget the A/C and Wipers
Heading to the beach means sun, heat, and sometimes unexpected thunderstorms. Make sure your air conditioning is blowing cold—especially if you’ll have kids or pets along for the ride. If it’s only working part-time or the air smells musty, it could be time to recharge the system or replace the cabin air filter.
Also, inspect your windshield wipers. Summer rain can hit without warning, and worn-out blades reduce visibility just when you need it most. If they streak or skip across the glass, it’s time for a new set.
Lights, Signals, and Emergency Gear
Before your trip, do a quick walkaround and check that all exterior lights are working—headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights. Not only is this important for safety, but it can also help you avoid getting pulled over in an unfamiliar town.
Finally, take a minute to look through your trunk or cargo area. Make sure you have basic emergency gear: jumper cables, a flashlight, a tire pressure gauge, a phone charger, and a first-aid kit. Even if you never need them, you’ll be glad they’re there.
Admiral Tire and Auto of Edgewater – Serving 5 Convenient Locations in MD and DE
At Admiral Tire and Auto of Edgewater, we’re here to help you get road-trip ready. Whether you’re heading out from Edgewater, Mitchellville, Denton, Newark, or Upper Marlboro, our team can perform a full pre-trip inspection and handle any maintenance you need before your beach getaway begins. Visit one of our five locations and travel with confidence.