Hitting the road is a key part of the warm months for many Canadians. In all the excitement, there’s one thing families often overlook: winter may be long over for us, but not for our vehicles.

The damage and stress that adds up over the course of a winter – sub-zero starts, road salt, hidden potholes, slush and temperature swings – can impact your vehicle well into the summer.

“We often see vehicles that feel like they’re running normally, but road stress often shows up later,” says Brian Mielko, the CEO of OK Tire. “It’s important to catch small issues early, before they become expensive or unsafe problems during peak driving season.”

Start with your tires.

According to Transport Canada, staying on top of tire maintenance improves your handling, braking distance and fuel economy and reduces your exhaust emissions. That’s why it’s important to get your tires checked regularly. If you haven’t yet switched from your winter tires to summer or all-season tires, it’s important to do so as soon as possible.

Some warning signs from your tires not to ignore:

  • vibrations in the steering wheel
  • pulling to one side
  • squealing or grinding noises
  • a loose or shaky feeling while driving

Do a safety check at home.

The vehicle technicians at OK Tire recommend families follow this road trip safety checklist:

  • Check tire pressure and tread depth, as well as for cracks and signs of uneven wear.
  • Test brakes and listen for unusual sounds.
  • Inspect battery health, especially if the vehicle struggled to get started even once the previous winter.
  • Check levels and top up washer fluid, break fluid, engine oil and coolant.
  • Confirm headlights and brake lights are functioning.
  • Restock your emergency kit, including first aid supplies, a flashlight and booster cables.

Tip: Book service appointments early. As temperatures rise, so does the demand for vehicle servicing. By booking yours now, you can avoid the pre-long-weekend rush and help ensure your vehicle’s road-ready before your travel plans begin.

By keeping on top of simple vehicle maintenance steps, you can lower your risk of a breakdown. Staying safe will help make sure that your family’s trip memories are made on the highway, not on the side of the road.

– News Canada