Here are a few car care tips we give all our customers:

1. Check your fluids. Engine oil, coolant, steering fluid, brake fluid, and transmission fluid should all be checked and filled by a skilled technician. If you spot a leak, tell the mechanic what color the fluid is - this will help determine where the leak is coming from and can speed up the repair process.
2. Rainproof your windshield. You should replace your blades every three months. We advise keeping a spare set in your trunk in case your blades fail while traveling. Use a glass coating water repellant to minimize the work the wipers have to do; in light rain, it makes the wipers almost unnecessary.
3. Rotate your tires. You can extend the life of your tires with regular rotations. Front and rear tires wear differently so a rotation can extend their life and save you money. Check your owner’s manual for a recommendation on how often to rotate. With the tires off, this is also a great time to inspect the brakes for wear.

Automotive Magic, Kenvil, NJ

Most of our customers in the city use their cars more in spring and summer than the rest of the year. We recommend taking care of the following to avoid even the smallest problem that could affect your road trip:

• Lube, oil, and filter change – Have this done by a mechanic and not a quick lube facility. A "quick lube" facility is convenient, but at least once a year go to a full-service garage where a technician with more experience can inspect the car and notice any issues that could turn into bigger problems on the road.
• Tires – Check the depth and condition of all four tires, as well as the spare. Check the production dates on your tires; most manufacturers recommend replacing tires that are eight years old, no matter what condition they are in. At the same time make sure the jack and lug wrench are in the car, and if your car has locked wheel lug nuts, make sure you have the key.
• Wiper blades and washer fluid – Good wipers are important for safety, and washer fluid is essential.
• Belts and hoses – During an oil change, a good mechanic should check all the rubber on the vehicle. Belts can split or crack and you don't want to be stuck on the side of the highway with smoke streaming out of your hood.
• Air and cabin filters – Air filters help your engine breathe, and the cabin filters help you and your passengers breathe. If you notice an unpleasant odor or airflow has decreased, consider replacing the cabin air filter, usually located behind the glove box.
• Maintenance schedule – Service intervals are suggested based on elapsed time as well as mileage. If you're driving more now, make sure that you're up to date on your recommended services.
• Have a good emergency kit – Make sure you have water and snacks, a blanket, flashlight, phone charger, flares, or triangles.
• Floor mats – Remove rubber mats and put carpet mats back inside.
• Sunglasses – Make sure you have a good pair of sunglasses in the car to reduce glare in longer daytime hours.

Summer brings heavy rain and sudden storms, so be ready in case one hits while you’re on the road:

• Lights on with wipers (daytime running lights are not sufficient) .
• Hydroplaning happens at speeds above 45 MPH. If you see rain puddling on the roadway, reduce your speed.
• Roads are the slickest during the first 15 minutes of a rainstorm, when the oils are washed to the surface of the road.
• Avoid hard braking and maintain at least 4 seconds of following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
• Watch out for deep standing water - driving through a deep puddle could cause engine damage or cause the engine to stall.
• On the highway stay in the middle lane - the passing lane and right lanes tend to collect more water.
• Keep the defroster on to prevent window fogging.

John Paul, AAA's Car Doctor