You’re all set for that long-awaited summer road trip to the Grand Canyon when, out of the blue, your car overheats on I-15 close to Primm. Ring a bell? At AA Auto Care, we’ve heard it all—from 115°F heat-stranded families to vacation budgets wasted on avoidable repairs. Here’s the bad news: 90% of summer breakdowns we repair could have been prevented with basic pre-trip inspections. With record numbers taking to the roads this summer, your vehicle requires more than a full tank of fuel to endure Vegas-to-San Diego excursions.
Southwest summer is tough on cars. The pavement is like a griddle, coolant dries up quicker than your pool water, and AC compressors are running overtime. But the good news is: Taking 30 minutes with this summer car checkup can save you thousands and get your vacation back on track.
Why a Pre-Trip Car Inspection Checklist Matters
- Record Road Trips Ahead
AAA predicts a record 38.4 million Americans driving by car during Memorial Day weekend, 4% higher than last year. - Las Vegas’s Unique Challenges
Between triple-digit summer days, stop-and-go traffic, and almost 80,000 roadside calls per year in Las Vegas and surrounding Arizona, neglecting a pre-trip car checkoff list is begging for trouble. - Protect Your Time & Wallet
The last thing you need is a ruptured hose or a dead battery miles from assistance. A little prep work now avoids costly roadside tows and frantic cell-service hunts.
Your Pre-Trip Maintenance Checklist for Summer
Your summer car maintenance checklist is explained below, step by step. Address each or visit AA Auto Care for a full car maintenance before a road trip.
1. Fluids Check
Long drives—and hot temperatures—push fluids to their limits.
- Engine Oil: Dirty or low oil can cause engine wear and overheating. Fill it up or service if approaching the recommended limit.
- Coolant / Antifreeze: Vegas heat will push engine temperatures into the red. Make sure your coolant reservoir is filled to the “Full” line and the mix is new. Bartolomeo of AAA Las Vegas cautions, “Coolant is the biggest thing—you should check it once a month in summer”.
- Brake Fluid: Critical to safe stopping, particularly on canyon runs or towing a trailer. Low fluid can allow air in and diminish braking ability.
- Transmission Fluid: Smooth gear shifts rely on clean fluid. If it’s dark or low, schedule a service.
- Windshield Washer Fluid: Bugs, dust storms, and desert grime will bombard your windshield—keep fluid levels topped off and windshield clean.
2. Tires & Tire Pressure
Your tires are literally the only part touching the road, so give them special attention.
- Tread Depth: Use a penny test—if Lincoln’s head is fully exposed, you need new tires.
- Pressure: Inflate to the manufacturer’s PSI (listed on the driver’s door jamb). Underinflated tires heat up, overinflated ones skid.
- Condition: Scan for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear—signs of alignment or suspension issues.
- Spare Tire: Don’t forget your emergency spare—make sure it’s properly inflated and ready to roll.
3. Brakes
Good brakes are non‑negotiable on high‑speed highways or steep desert passes.
- Listen & Feel: Squealing, grinding, or a soft pedal? That’s your brake pads or rotors crying for attention.
- Brake Fluid Level: Confirm it’s at the correct mark—low fluid often signals worn pads.
- Professional Inspection: If you sense anything off, let AA Auto Care run a quick brake check before you go.
4. Battery Health
A dead battery can ruin any trip, especially in remote stretches.
- Age Check: If it’s over three years old, have it load‑tested.
- Connections: Clean corrosion off terminals and ensure tight cables.
- Performance: Hesitation on start or dim lights? Time for a battery replacement.
5. Lights & Signals
Early mornings and late nights demand perfect visibility.
- Headlights & High Beams: Confirm both beams work and aim LEDs/halogens correctly.
- Brake Lights & Turn Signals: Ask a friend to press the pedals and toggle signals while you observe.
- Hazard Lights & Interior Lamps: Test everything—stranded or broken down, you want to be seen.
6. Belts & Hoses
Vegas heat turns rubber brittle—don’t get sidelined by a snapped belt.
- Inspect for Cracks & Fraying: Check serpentine belts, timing belts, and radiator hoses.
- Check Clamps & Connections: Loose or corroded clamps can cause leaks and overheating.
- Replace Worn Parts: If you see any hint of wear, swap them out before departure.
7. A/C & Climate Control
A broken air conditioner in 105°F is more than an inconvenience—it’s dangerous.
- Airflow & Cooling Test: Run your A/C on max and verify cold air.
- Refrigerant Level: Low refrigerant leads to poor cooling—have it topped off or leak‑checked.
- Cabin Air Filter: Dirty filters reduce airflow and strain the blower motor.
8. Wipers & Windshield
Desert highways stir up dust and rocks. Good wipers and a clean windshield are safety necessities.
- Blade Condition: Replace blades if they streak or chatter.
- Windshield Chips: Even small chips can expand into cracks from road vibrations. Repair any damage.
9. Emergency & Roadside Kit
Preparation is peace of mind.
- Jumper Cables / Jump Starter
- Flashlight & Extra Batteries
- First Aid Kit
- Basic Tools (wrench, pliers)
- Water & Nonperishable Snacks
- Blanket & Poncho
- Tire Repair Kit & Pressure Gauge
- Spare Fuses & Bulbs
Bonus: Summer Vehicle Preparation Tips
- Shade & Sunshade: Parking in shade or using a reflective sunshade can lower interior temps by 15–20°F.
- Car Cover: For all‑day sun exposure, a fitted car cover shields paint and interior plastics.
- Navigation Updates: Make sure your GPS or map app is up to date—detours and closures can make your scenic drive a maze.
When to Call the Pros
If this pre-trip maintenance checklist seems overwhelming, or you need a detailed once-over, take your vehicle to any of AA Auto Care’s five Las Vegas facilities. Our seasoned techs will:
- Run a full summer vehicle preparation inspection
- Top off or replace fluids
- Test A/C performance
- Rotate tires and check alignment
- Inspect brakes, belts, hoses, and battery
- Provide honest, no‑upsell recommendations
All while you relax in our lobby or grab a coffee next door.
Conclusion
A little work on your side before you start driving could make all the difference between an uneventful adventure and an unplanned roadside rescue. This summer car maintenance checklist will help you to make sure every belt, bulb, and brake is ready for your trip. A summer car maintenance checklist is about safety, savings, and seamless beginning and ending of memories, not only about comfort.
Rolling ready? Book your pre-trip car inspection checklist appointment today at AA Auto Care and drive off into the sunset with confidence—Vegas style!