By Coach Chris Cotton, Auto-Fix Auto Shop Coaching
Summer is here, and with it comes the season of road trips. AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching believes it’s crucial for auto repair shop owners to ensure their customers are well-prepared for their summer adventures. By recommending essential items and services, you not only enhance their travel experience but also establish trust and reliability. Here are the top 10 summer road trip essentials that every auto repair shop should suggest to their customers.
1. Comprehensive Vehicle Inspection
A comprehensive vehicle inspection is essential before a road trip. This service covers brakes, lights, engine, and transmission, catching potential issues early to prevent breakdowns. Regular inspections help ensure a safe and smooth journey.
Key Inspection Points:
- Brakes
- Lights and indicators
- Engine and transmission
- Fluid levels
- Battery health
2. Tire Checks and Services
Tires are critical for a safe road trip. Check tire pressure, tread depth, and condition. Recommend tire rotation, balancing, and alignment to extend tire life and improve fuel efficiency. Well-maintained tires contribute to better handling and overall safety.
Benefits of Proper Tire Maintenance:
- Improved fuel efficiency
- Reduced risk of blowouts
- Extended tire life
- Better handling and safety
3. Essential Car Fluids
Remind customers to top off essential car fluids like engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. This ensures smooth vehicle operation, especially during long drives. Proper fluid levels prevent overheating and mechanical issues.
Essential Car Fluids:
- Engine oil
- Coolant/antifreeze
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
4. Battery Health Check
A dead battery can ruin a road trip. Recommend a battery health check to ensure it’s in good condition. If the battery is old or weak, suggest a replacement. A reliable battery is crucial for starting the car and running accessories.
Signs of a Weak Battery:
- Slow engine crank
- Dim lights
- Battery warning light
- Corroded battery terminals
5. Emergency Kit
An emergency kit is a must-have. Include items like jumper cables, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, basic tools, and roadside flares. Being prepared for emergencies ensures peace of mind and safety on the road.
Essential Items:
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight
- First-aid kit
- Basic tools
- Roadside flares
- Reflective vest
6. Spare Tire and Tools
Ensure customers have a properly inflated spare tire and the tools to change a flat. This includes a jack, lug wrench, and tire pressure gauge. Knowing how to change a tire can save time and stress during a flat tire situation.
Spare Tire Tools:
- Jack
- Lug wrench
- Tire pressure gauge
- Tire inflator
7. Air Conditioning Check
A functional air conditioning system is vital for comfort. Recommend an air conditioning check to ensure it’s cooling effectively. This service can improve passenger comfort during hot summer drives.
Air Conditioning Check:
- Inspect refrigerant levels
- Check compressor
- Clean or replace air filters
- Test overall cooling performance
8. Navigation Tools
Modern navigation tools, such as GPS devices or smartphone apps, are essential. Encourage customers to update their maps and software. Updated navigation tools help drivers avoid traffic and find the best routes.
Navigation Tools:
- GPS device
- Smartphone navigation apps
- Updated maps
- Route planning software
9. Entertainment Options
Suggest customers prepare entertainment options like music playlists, audiobooks, or portable DVD players to keep everyone entertained during long drives. Keeping passengers engaged can make the journey more enjoyable.
Entertainment Ideas:
- Music playlists
- Audiobooks
- Portable DVD players
- Travel games and puzzles
10. Roadside Assistance Plan
Recommend a roadside assistance plan for help with towing, lockouts, fuel delivery, and more. This gives travelers added confidence and security. Having roadside assistance ensures help is available in case of emergencies.
Benefits of Roadside Assistance:
- Towing services
- Lockout assistance
- Fuel delivery
- Flat tire changes
- Battery jump-starts
Get Ready for Your Summer Road Trip with AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching
At AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching, we prioritize safety and preparedness for summer road trips. Our comprehensive vehicle inspection and maintenance services ensure your customers’ vehicles are in top condition, enhancing their travel experiences and building lasting trust.
For more information or to schedule your pre-trip inspection, contact us at (940) 400-1008 or visit our website. Explore our blog for more tips and our services page for detailed maintenance options.
