Making the Family Road Trip a Success

CAA South Central Ontario Recommends Three Easy Steps to Ensure Vehicle Troubles Don’t Ruin Summer Driving Holidays

Thornhill, ON - June 25, 2009 - With Canadians cautiously watching their spending, the family road trip is expected to be the vacation of choice for many Canadians this summer. As CAA South Central Ontario experienced a 22 per cent increase in calls during July and August last year due to vehicle-related problems, it is advising trip planners to follow some basic vehicle preparation tips to ensure everyone brings home only fond memories of their 2009 summer road trip.

“Road trips are a fantastic way for families to enjoy an affordable vacation while seeing and experiencing new places,” says Edyta Zdancewicz, Media and PR Specialist, CAA South Central Ontario. “However, we strongly advise that all road trippers spend a little time prior to their trips checking and preparing their vehicles - otherwise their relaxing, affordable family vacation may turn into exactly the opposite experience.”

According to CAASCO’s call centre, which manages calls from its 1.8 million members, the top three vehicle related problems individuals reported last summer were battery failures, lockouts and cars failing to start. In most cases, these three trouble areas can easily be prevented if vehicle owners follow three simple steps.

Step 1 – Schedule a Battery Test
Contrary to widespread belief, batteries fail all year long, particularly in July and August when the air conditioning places an extra stress on the battery. CAA recommends scheduling two battery tests each year: at the start of the summer and the start of the winter. Whether you are planning a lengthy, cross-country tour or a series of short day trips this summer, it is advisable to get your vehicle’s battery tested before setting out.

From July 1st 2009 to July 31st 2009, CAASCO members in most suburban cities in South Central Ontario, simply have to call 1-866-740-6421 to receive a free mobile diagnostic battery test. Using a unique diagnostic, battery tester, the technician will provide an accurate, printed report showing the remaining life in the battery and if a new battery is required can sell and install one on the spot.

For drivers wanting to make their road trips as green and carbon-neutral as possible, CAASCO is now offering the first eco-friendly vehicle battery. The new CAA Green Power Battery is a high-quality, strong-performing battery that is made with recycled lead and recycled plastic – and guarantees the replaced battery will be properly disposed of or recycled safely.

Step 2 – Check Fluid Levels and Examine Belts and Hoses
If you want to protect yourself against engine failure checking all fluid levels, hoses and belts in advance of packing the car is an absolute must. Fluids that should be checked include; engine oil, power steering, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant- reservoir level. If any of these fluids are too low, or show signs of leaking be sure to call a mechanic.

With hot summer days, it is imperative your vehicle’s cooling system is working properly. When the engine is turned off, visually inspect all hoses and belts for signs of swelling or cracking. Damaged belts can affect the operation of the electrical system, power steering and A/C operation. If you notice cracks, blisters or other signs of wear and tear, arrange for your car to be seen by a professional technician.

Step 3 – Pack an Extra Set of Keys
As simple as it seems, packing an extra set of car keys can prevent a lot of frustration and needless cost during a road trip. Be sure though, not to lock the extra keys in the car. Before heading out on the road, place the extra keys in something that you always take out of the car with you - a coat pocket, in a purse, or buried in a stroller. If for some reason you lock your keys in the car, or misplace them, you will quickly and easily be able to continue on your journey.

“Many people spend hours planning what to pack but they neglect to invest any time preparing their vehicle for the journey it has ahead,” says Zdancewicz. “We cannot emphasize enough the importance of following these three easy steps before embarking on a road trip. It could literally mean the difference between a wonderful holiday or a disastrous one.”

About CAA South Central Ontario
For more information about CAA South Central Ontario, visit www.caasco.com. CAA South Central Ontario is a not-for-profit auto club offering insurance, travel and roadside services. There are more than 1.8 million CAA members in South Central Ontario and over 5 million members in Canada.