More than 2.1 million Floridians are expected to take a Memorial Day road trip, according to AAA.
Unfortunately, it also means thousands of them will have car problems, AAA said.
AAA expects to rescue more than 483,000 stranded motorists nationwide over the holiday weekend.
The three most common reasons for rescues are flat tires, dead batteries and lockouts.
A recent AAA survey found that 52% of Floridians plan to get a professional vehicle inspection before their summer road trips. A fifth of drivers, 19%, will carry out their own inspection. However, 21% of Floridians say they don’t plan to get a vehicle inspection before hitting the road this summer.
“A well-maintained vehicle is critical to a successful and safe road trip,” said Mark Jenkins, director of public relations for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “We encourage all drivers to do a pre-trip inspection of their tires, battery, punctures, fluids and other basics. This could help prevent a breakdown before it happens.”
AAA tips for drivers with car problems
-
Stop safely at the next exit or safe stopping point, if possible.
-
If you must stop immediately, pull to the shoulder as far as possible to create more distance between your vehicle and passing traffic.
-
Turn on your hazard lights so other drivers know you’re there.
-
Ask for help
-
Stay with your vehicle whenever it is safe to do so.
-
If you get out of your vehicle, watch for oncoming traffic for a good while to get out and stay alert and close to the vehicle. Avoid turning your back on traffic whenever possible.
AAA tips to prevent car trouble
-
Check Your Tires: At a minimum, AAA recommends checking your tires once a month and before going on a long trip. Pay special attention to both tire inflation pressure and tread depth. Be sure to inspect all four tires and the spare if your vehicle has one.
-
Check your battery: The average life of a car battery is usually 3-5 years. If your engine is slow to start and/or your lights are dim, your battery may be nearing the end of its life. Visual signs of damage or corrosion are other indicators of deterioration.
-
Listen and feel the brakes: If you hear a noise or vibration when applying the brakes, take your vehicle to an auto repair shop for a brake inspection.
-
Replace your wipers and refill your windshield cleaner – rubber wipers naturally degrade over time. Most manufacturers recommend replacing them every 6-12 months. If the wipers streak or fail to clean the windshield thoroughly, replace the blades.
-
Top off engine oil and other fluids: Check that engine oil, coolant, and brake, transmission, and power steering fluids are at the correct levels for safe vehicle operation. When adding fluids, use products that meet the specifications listed in the owner’s manual.
-
Stock up on emergency kit supplies: AAA recommends keeping a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle. Includes a flashlight and extra fresh batteries, first aid supplies, drinking water, non-perishable snacks for people and pets, car battery booster cables, emergency flares or reflectors, a rain poncho, a kit basic tools, tape, gloves and shop. rags or paper towels.
Copyright 2023 by WJXT News4JAX – All rights reserved.