Important Car Maintenance You Can Do Yourself

Posted on March 19, 2021 by Zores

Not all car maintenance requires the professional attention and acumen of a licensed automotive mechanic. There are actually many services a car owner can do themselves to achieve optimal driving performance and vehicular longevity.

Continue reading to learn which routine automotive maintenance jobs you can do all on your own and how!

Indianapolis 24 Hour Roadside Assistance 317-247-8484

The Benefits of Do-It-Yourself Car Care

Handling routine maintenance on your own, rather than outsourcing professional auto service, can save a driver up to $150 or more each year. This may seem like a nominal figure, but it certainly adds up year after year. And who wouldn’t want an extra couple hundred dollars in their wallet for the weekend? Performing your own vehicular maintenance on the areas of your car that are DIY-Approved can save drivers time and money. It is vital to only perform car maintenance that does not require the tools and training of a professional mechanic.

Here is a DIY-APPROVED car maintenance checklist to keep your car safe and running smoothly:

► Coolant

Without coolant, your car’s engine would be in pretty bad shape. In fact, it would fail to operate entirely after a short amount of time without coolant. Also called radiator fluid, coolant is imperative for the operation and performance of any vehicle. It prevents the inner workings of a car engine from overheating as a result of constant friction and heat production. If you have an overheating engine, the number one cause is lack of radiator fluid. Simply purchase a bottle or two at your local automotive store, locate the coolant cap beneath your hood, and pour the solution right in!

► Headlights

Did you know you can change a burnt-out headlight all on your own? It’s true and not many car owners know it! Since this can get you a traffic ticket or worse, cause an accident, a burnt-out headlight is an immediate repair. And since you don’t need to make an appointment with an auto shop, you can get this problem repaired right away. All you need is a basic tool set and a new bulb!

► Windshield Wiper Fluid

It may seem trivial, but windshield wiper fluid is one of the 7 essential car fluids every vehicle requires for functional operation and safety. And you can re-fill your windshield wiper fluid any time it runs low. Simply purchase a bottle of windshield fluid and pour it down the correct tube under your car’s hood. Do this as often as you need to, keeping in mind that you will probably need to do this more often in winter.

Do you have a roadside car emergency in Indianapolis, Indiana? Contact Zore’s Towing for 24 hour tow truck and roadside assistance services you can afford. We serve all of Central Indiana, including Lebanon, Greenwood, and Avon areas.

You Should Read:

Why is My Car Engine Overheating?
What You Need to Know About Changing Your Car’s Oil
How to Tell if Your Car Needs Alternator Replacement

Indianapolis Towing & Recovery 317-247-8484

DIY Roadside Assistance Tools to Always Have in Your Car

Posted on February 12, 2021 by Zores

With the weather being the way it is right now, it is important to drive safe no matter how short your travel distance may be. Here in Indiana, this time of year is marked with snow, ice, slush, mud, and more, making the road conditions more hazardous than normal. In order to keep yourself protected in the time of an automotive emergency, be sure to have a quality roadside assistance kit in your car at all times.

If a full roadside kit is not an option for you, at least have these fundamental roadside assistance tools on hand for do-it-yourself fixes.

Indianapolis Indiana Roadside Assistance Tow Truck 317-247-8484

Have These in Your Car at All Times for a Roadside Emergency:

► Tire Pressure Gauge

Tire pressure is an important part of proper vehicle performance and fuel efficiency. Fortunately, it is something you can easily check and fix on your own. It is important to regularly check your tire pressure levels, and the best tool for the job is a basic tire pressure gauge. You can buy a quality tire pressure gauge at any local automotive store for under $10. The general rule of thumb for tire pressure is anywhere from 32 to 35 psi, depending on the climate. Check your owner’s manual for the proper specifications for your vehicle, or look for a sticker on the inside of your driver’s door.

► Torque Wrench

When you need to fasten a nut or bolt, a torque wrench is a handy tool to have around. From tire changes to battery replacement, there many DIY opportunities that would call for a torque wrench. Since they come in all different setups and sizes, it is recommended to get an interchangeable torque wrench, or one that allows for several size settings. There are three main types: flex bar, sound-indicating, and dial indicator. You can find quality torque wrenches at any local hardware or automotive store for under $20.

► Jumper Cables

When your car is low on power, you will need to jump start the battery. And there is no better way to do this than to use a set of jumper cables. Jumper cables are a staple in any automotive care kit. Keep them in your vehicle at all times in case of an emergency. You can purchase a quality set at any local hardware of automotive parts store for under $30. You may want to consider purchasing them in a pre-made emergency roadside kit.

► Automotive Code Reader

These little devices have come a long way in terms of innovation and accuracy. They hook up to your vehicle and will read, interpret, and clear Check Engine and ABS lights. You can now purchase electronic car reading diagnostic devices on the market at an affordable price. There are several different makes and models, all ranging in features and price. You can get a quality car reader for under $100 at any local automotive parts store.

Central Indiana Towing and Recovery Professionals You Can Count On 24 Hours a Day

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour towing and recovery wrecker services in Indianapolis, and all throughout Central Indiana. We serve more than 30 additional Indiana towns and cities throughout the state, and maintain a wide dispatching grid so that we can uphold speedy response times. Whether you need help with a flat tire or fuel fill up, or have just been in an auto accident and need clearance towing, we are the licensed and insured wreckers who can be there for you.

Having served the surrounding Hoosier communities for nearly 100 years, you can trust that we are the experts who can get the job done right the first time, and at an affordable price. Request a free quote, or contact us for emergency tow truck or roadside assistance service, anytime. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year.

3 Things You Should Not Do if Your Car Gets Stuck in Snow

Posted on January 18, 2021 by Zores

Just as every Indiana winter promises, the snow has arrived, and commuters everywhere are sliding all over the road. If you find yourself stuck in snow like so many other drivers to this time of year, you are not out of luck. There are plenty of things you can do to get unstuck from a snowy ditch or pileup. However, there are also things you should NEVER do, as they can put you and your vehicle in grave danger, and they simply do not work. Instead, all they do is exert your energy and add more frustration to the cause.

Continue reading to learn what you should not do if your car gets stuck in the snow, and the one thing that always works every time.

24 Hour Roadside Assistance in Indianapolis 317-247-8484

Car Stuck in Snow? DON’T TRY THIS:

☒ Do Not Rock Your Car

You have seen it in the movies, and perhaps even in real life, but it will not work out well for you. When stuck in snow, do not try to drive and reverse over and over again in attempt to “rock” your vehicle out of its stuck position. Not only does this waste enormous amount of gas, but it also creates a massive fume cloud that can be distracting or obstructive to passing drivers. Furthermore, it can put strain on your transmission, deplete your car of its essential fluids, and even kill the battery.

☒ ☒ Do Not Get Out and Push

One of the most dangerous things you can do to free your car from snow is to try to push it from the front or from behind. You might be thinking, “well I can’t get hit by a car if I am in the middle of nowhere.” But this is dangerous for other reasons other than the risk of being struck by a passing vehicle. You see, cars can instantly release when you are not expecting it to, and roll over whoever is in the way. Even if you are not near a busy road, you can still get run over by your own vehicle if you try this method.

☒ ☒ ☒ Do Not Floor the Gas

A common reaction for anyone who’s car is stuck in snow is to stomp on the gas pedal. But this is not the right choice. Just like rocking your car back and forth, you are putting unnecessary strain on your engine, fuel system, and internal hardware. Not only can this cause costly damage, but it can also be very dangerous. You do not want to jolt out of your stuck position suddenly, and possibly into oncoming traffic, or worse, a person. This happens more often than you think.

✨ Safe Ways to Pull a Car Out of a Ditch

Indianapolis Roadside Assistance is the Key to Get Your Car Un-Stuck

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

3 Safe Ways to Pull a Car Out of a Ditch

Posted on January 11, 2021 by Zores

There are many contributing factors as to why your vehicle is now stuck in a ditch on the side of the road. It could be a combination of anything from oil spills and slippery roads, to poor vision, bald tires, low tire pressure, distracted driving, and all types of harsh or dangerous weather conditions. Overall, there are many reasons why car wind up in ditches. The good news is that you have several options to choose from, all of which will help to ensure your safety, protect your vehicle, and get you back on the road again.

Continue reading to learn what you can do to pull your car out of a ditch in the safest way possible.

24 Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance — Emergency Towing and 24 Hour Roadside Assistance 317-247-8484

Secure Your Safety Before You Begin

Even though you are on the side of the road, you are still vulnerable. So, the very first task you have after driving into a ditch is ensuring your safety and the safety of your passengers if you have any. Do this by first by turning off your ignition and putting your hazard lights on. Next, you will need to also put your parking brake on to prevent sliding down further into the recession. If you are in a high-traffic area or on a dangerous roadway, you should contact police and inform them of your accident so they can help block traffic.

3 Ways of Getting a Car Out of a Ditch:

❶ Alter Your Vehicle’s Weight

If your vehicle was not damaged, you might be able to drive it out of the ditch yourself. Do this by adjusting your vehicle’s weight. If you have heavy items in the backseat or trunk, get rid of them temporarily. This includes all passengers. Just be sure they are safe and far from the side of the road. A lighter load can help your car get out. Also be sure to remove your parking brake before trying to drive out. If you are stuck in snow or mud, you will actually need the extra weight to gain traction. This brings us to your next option.

❷ Add Some Traction

Your car is stuck because it lacks a sufficient amount of traction to grab the ground and propel itself out. To remedy this problem, find some traction. If you have rear wheel drive, place something that will provide traction behind the rear tires. If you have front wheel drive, place these items in front of the front tires. Items that may work include carpet mats, sand, cardboard, clothing, and blankets.

❸ Contact a 24 Hour Tow Truck for Emergency Roadside Assistance

It is pointless to try over and over again if your car is stuck. After a few attempts, if you are not successful, it is time to contact an Indianapolis roadside assistance towing company. They have the proper equipment to safely pull your car out of a ditch. They operate on a 24 hour basis, and can respond to your location quickly because they are dispatched from the road. Their rates are fair as long as you choose a reputable and experienced towing service.

Affordable Indiana Tow Truck and Roadside Assistance Services

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour towing and roadside assistance in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

3 Simple Steps to Using a Trailer Hitch Adapter

Posted on December 29, 2020 by Zores

Trailer hitch adapters are great because they do just that: adapt. You can use them with a 2 inch hitch accessory with a 1 ¼ inch receiver. Even better, trailer hitch adapters can also be used with hitch-mounted bike racks and cargo carriers that are designed for a 2 inch receiver hitch. Keep in mind, you still must use cargo support straps to prevent your cargo from moving around or creating strain on your trailer hitch. Fortunately, using a trailer hitch adapter is as easy as 1, 2, 3!

Continue below to learn the 3 simplest steps to using a trailer hitch adapter, as well as a lifesaving tip that will protect you in the case that your trailer hitch fails you on the road.

Indiana Roadside Assistance Tow Truck 317-247-8484

A Vital Warning Before You Begin

Never use a hitch-mounted carrier lift with a trailer hitch adapter. Furthermore, when using a trailer hitch adapter, be sure to use a cargo support system, such as straps, to prevent movement of your load, as well as decrease extra stress on the adapter. Additionally, you much check your receiver hitch tongue weight rating before setting up. You want your tongue weight rating to be greater than your combined cargo weight. A review of gross vehicle weight ratings will help you calculate your numbers.

Now Let’s Put That Trailer Hitch Adapter to Good USE!

Okay, now before using your trailer hitch adapter, check again to be sure that the receiver hitch tongue weight is higher than the weight of your cargo, including the weight of your towing vehicle. Now that you have that ready to go, let’s put that hitch adapter to good use!

First, take your trailer hitch adapter and insert it inside your towing vehicle’s hitch receiver. Then secure it with your pin and clip.

Second, put on your 2 inch hitch accessory, and then safely secure it with another pin and clip set.

Third, further secure your hitch accessory by adding on a set of quality cargo support straps.

While Using Your Trailer Hitch Adapter…

On and off the road, be sure to routinely inspect and adjust your trailer hitch adapter as needed. This improves the setup’s safety, security, and overall performance. If you are ever in a jam while out on the road, do not try to “rig up” your trailer hitch or adapter to “just get you home.” Not only is this incredibly dangerous to you and your cargo, but it is also a danger to other drivers on the road. Instead, contact a 24 hour roadside assistance tow truck for emergency response service. They have the fleet, gear, and resources to ensure your trailer and towing vehicle are safe to hit the road again.

Who to Trust for 24 Hour Roadside Assistance and Emergency Towing in Indiana

If your towing vehicle breaks down while hauling a camper or RV in Central Indiana, call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance and emergency towing. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

How to Get Your Car Out After Driving into a Ditch

Posted on November 30, 2020 by Zores

Now that some snow trickle has arrived, it is officially that time of year when the most traffic accidents take place. One of the most common roadway emergencies seen during Indiana winters are cars that wind up driving into a ditch. When this happens, drivers are typically stuck unless they take some action to free their vehicle from the trench.

If you are currently facing the same situation, continue reading to learn how to get your car out after driving it into a ditch. At least one of these solutions will guarantee your safety and release.

24 Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance Indianapolis Indiana 317-247-8484

Address Your Safety

The very first thing you should do after driving into a ditch is address everyone’s safety, including your own. Once you know everyone is unharmed, take several minutes to observe your surroundings. Do not immediately get out of your car to examine the damage. Instead, wait first, and ensure that you are out of the way of oncoming traffic or any other hazards. If anyone is hurt, call 911 and request paramedics right away.

Attempt to Get Out on Your Own

Now comes the part where you attempt to get your car out of the ditch it is in, all on your own. In minor cases of cars being stuck in ditches, it is possible to do this with very little effort. Start by seeing if you can alter the load weight inside your vehicle. Perhaps move around some luggage or belongings from the back to the front, or vice versa, or remove them altogether. This adjustment might help your car gain enough traction to free itself from the ditch.

If not, it is time to address traction. You can place certain things in front of your wheels to increase traction. Try cardboard, sand, cat litter, and even your floor mats. For front wheel drive cars, focus on the front wheels. For rear-wheel drive cars, focus on placing things in front of the back wheels.

Contact a 24 Hour Tow Truck

When all else fails, your surefire way of freeing a car stuck in the ditch is emergency roadside assistance services. Contact a local, 24 hour towing company that offers roadside assisting, including recovery service, which is what you need to pull your vehicle out of the trench. Your car insurance might cover this fee, otherwise, it is very affordable. You can expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $75 or so.

Affordable and Fast 24 Hour Roadside Assistance for Central Indiana

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance in Indiana. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

Stay Safe By Keeping These 6 Things in Your Car at All Times

Posted on November 20, 2020 by Zores

For anyone who operates a vehicle, road safety should be at the top of the priority list. But being “road safe” doesn’t stop at safe driving; it also requires being prepared for emergencies, whether that’s a flat tire, stalled engine, dead battery, or something more catastrophic. Fortunately, you can better prepare yourself for unanticipated road emergencies by keep certain items in your vehicle at all times.

Continue reading to learn at least 6 items that can help you during your next road emergency.

Jumper Cables

If your car battery dies, your jumper cables will save you from a major setback or costly tow. Always keep workable jumper cables in the trunk of your vehicle. Never remove them. Today, many jumper cables can be purchased in a nicely-compacted package that won’t take up too much space in your trunk. Be sure you also know how to jump start a dead car battery.

Spare Tire and Tools

In the case that you get a flat, it is quite possible to change your tire yourself, that is, if you have a spare one on hand. Most cars come with a factory spare, but if you bought your car used, it might be missing. Be sure to check your car for a spare, and if you do not have one, buy one that matches your make and model vehicle. Spare tires are available for sale at any local tire store or automotive parts store.

Flashlight or Lamp

If your car breaks down at night, especially if it’s due to a dead battery, it might be too dark to see what you are doing. Not only does this hinder your ability to identify and resolve the issue, but it can also put you and your passengers in danger of being hit by other vehicles. Avoid these problems by keeping a quality flashlight or lantern in your car, along with an extra set of batteries.

Blanket

In the case that your car breaks down in the middle of a cold season, and your heat does not work, you would be safer and more comfortable with a blanket. If you commonly have passengers with you, add more blankets.

Water

Just like blankets, water is another prime roadside emergency item to have. Keep a gallon jug or a 6-pack of bottled water in your trunk in the case that your engine overheats, or you are broken down for a long period of time without food or beverage.

Fully-Charged Portable Phone Charger

There are several portable phone chargers on the market to choose from. Be sure the one you add to your roadside emergency kit is a good quality brand. Be sure it is fully-charged, and then keep it in your vehicle at all times. Only use it for emergencies. You see, if your car breaks down because of a dead battery, you won’t be able to use your car to plug in your phone. A portable charger solves this common problem.

Indianapolis Indiana Roadside Assistance and Towing Services

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance and towing services in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

How Does Tongue Weight Affect My Car?

Posted on October 22, 2020 by Zores

Tongue weight (TW) is incredibly important when it comes to towing and hauling cargo with your car. Improper tongue weight would make it very difficult to operate your vehicle, let alone do so safely. If you are not familiar with tongue weight calculations and recommendations, it is vital that you educate yourself before hitting the road with a trailer in tow.

Continue reading to learn how tongue weight effects a car’s ability to perform, and how to determine your make and model’s manufacturer’s instructions for tongue weights and towing capacity.

What is Tongue Weight?

Tongue weight (TW) is the amount of fixed force the trailer applies on the hitch ball of your vehicle. Without adhering to your vehicle’s manufacturer’s guidelines for tongue weight and towing capacity, you are at a much higher risk of accidents and property damage occurring during the tow. Simply put, it is not safe to tow a trailer that is not putting enough weight or too much weight on the hitch ball.

Without enough weight, the trailer is prone to swaying side to side, which is a leading cause of serious motor vehicle accidents in the country. While starting off as a first time tower, be sure to review what you should do if your trailer starts to sway, just to be prepared in the case of an emergency. If there is too much weight on the hitch ball, then you can risk putting too much force on the back tire of your car, which can cause the rear of the vehicle to sway or lift off of the ground.

Can you picture driving a car with elliptical wheels rather than circular wheels? The ride would most certainly feel unsteady and uncontrollable. Driving a car with improper tongue weight would be much like this. Forget navigating turns, taking corners, backing up, or even braking, successfully. Although this is just a brief explanation of tongue weight, you can see just how dangerous incorrect tongue weight calculations can be for drivers, as well as other pedestrians and passengers on the road.

How to Calculate Your Car and Trailer Tongue Weight

To determine your vehicle and trailer tongue weight guidelines, simply refer to your owners’ manual. The general rule of thumb is that the tongue weight should be approximately 10 to 15 percent of the towing vehicle’s total weight. Take a standard 2,400 lb. sedan loaded with 1,000 lbs. of freight, for instance. The recommended tongue weight would be between 340 and 510 pounds, which is 10 to 15% of the total 3,400 pounds being towed.

Some make and model vehicles require a hitch upgrade for tongue weights higher than a 700 or 800 pounds. One example of this would be the Sierra 1500 pickup truck, which requires owners to switch from a weight-carrying hitch to a weight-distributing hitch. Also, some gooseneck and fifth wheel trailers are designed for heavier loads, so their recommended tongue weights are generally between 15 and 30 percent, rather than 10 to 15 percent.

Where to Get 24 HR Towing and Roadside Assistance in Central Indiana

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance and towing services in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. We are fully-equipped with the right fleets to assist cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, construction equipment, trailers, vans, semi-trucks, airplanes, and much more. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

Why Do Some Vehicles Have Spare Tires and Others Don’t?

Posted on September 25, 2020 by Zores

If you are on the hunt for a new vehicle, and a spare tire is something important to you, be sure to pay attention to everything your potential new car comes with. That is because many car manufacturers are not putting spare tires in newer model vehicles anymore. If you find this interesting, wait until you learn why some producers have chosen this practice.

Continue reading to learn the top 4 reasons why some new cars do not come with a spare tire option.

24 Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance in Indiana 317-247-8484

1. Improved Fuel Efficiency

With the trending green movement becoming so popular that it is almost ingrained in most consumers shopping tendencies, it is no surprise that many car manufacturers are attempting to improve their vehicles fuel efficiency. One effort to accomplish this has been to eliminate the extra weight of a spare tire. This may seem like a trivial amount, but the absence of a spare tire can reduce a vehicle’s overall weight by 30 to 50 pounds. That is because you must also consider the additional weight of the jack and wrench. The benefits from this type of elimination also helps car manufacturers meet the strict EPA guidelines.

2. Increased Storage Space

Although it may not seem like a simple donut or spare can take up a lot of room, in smaller vehicles, its absence can make a huge difference. Vehicles like sports cars, compact cars, eco-conscious cars, electric cars, and even smaller-sized sedans, can all benefit from the lack of a spare. The added space allows for a more comfortable ride.

3. Batteries and Emissions Equipment

In contrast to adding more storage, eliminating a spare tire is a must for many car manufacturers because there is too much space occupied by other equipment. This includes hybrids, electric cars, and diesels. The batteries and emissions equipment of these vehicles takes up the space that would typically house a spare.

4. Decreased Manufacturing Costs

The elimination of a spare tire naturally saves car manufacturers money, hundreds of thousands, in fact. However, many car manufacturers use that savings to improve other performance, aesthetic, and mechanical features. So sometimes, it is a “give and take” situation.

If Your Car Does Not Come With a Spare

If you are the driver of a vehicle that lacks a spare, whether because it was manufactured that way to you just don’t have one, there are still options for you on the road. You can always purchase a properly-sized spare or donut for your vehicle, along with the proper tools (i.e. jack, torque wrench, road triangles, etc.).

Helpful Flat Tire Advice

If you ever find yourself with a flat on the side of the road without one, you can contact a 24 hour emergency roadside assistance service. Some insurance policies actually cover roadside assistance needs, or have their own roadside assistance service. Simply dial the number and wait for help to arrive. Most emergency roadside assistance services operate on a 24 hour basis, 7 days a week and 365 days a year. That is why they are called “emergency” roadside assistance services.

Who to Trust for 24 Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance in Indiana

If your vehicle breaks down at any point during your trip, call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for Indianapolis roadside assistance and towing recovery services you can trust. Our friendly Indiana tow truck operators are certified roadside emergency assistants, and are always waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

CLICK FOR A FREE QUOTE OR TO REQUEST SERVICE NOW!

A 4 Point Vehicle Check for Your Autumn Road Trip

Posted on September 17, 2020 by Zores

Autumn is a wonderful time to take a road trip. You don’t even need to get out of the car to enjoy yourself. Simply taking in all the surrounding, ever-evolving seasonal beauty is enough to make your trip worth it. Tall, verdant evergreens, billowing leafy canopies of golds and oranges, bright yellow foliage, and bustling streams in cold water creeks and river tributaries are just a few of the sites you’ll likely see this year on your Fall Indiana road trip. But if you really want to make the most out of your road trip, your first priority should be preparing the vehicle you intend to drive. After all, you and your passengers are the safest when your vehicle is in the best condition, and fully-equipped with the proper road safety supplies.

In fact, you can feel confident about your car and yourself as the driver by simply performing a 4 point, pre-trip check before hitting the road. Continue below to learn exactly how!

24 Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance 317-247-8484

4-Point Vehicle Check List for Road Trips

Be sure to do your 6 point vehicular check at least one or two weeks prior to your planned departure date. This time frame will give you plenty of leeway to have needed automotive services or minor repairs done. After ensuring that your car does is operating normally, and does not need any minor repairs or factory scheduled maintenance work, you can move forward with your 4-Point Vehicle Check List!

#1 Automotive Fluids

Your first point to check during your pre-trip vehicular inspection is fluid levels. Be sure that your car, truck, van, or SUV is topped off with all 7 essential automotive fluids. These include battery fluid, transmission fluid, motor oil, power steering fluid, radiator fluid (coolant), brake fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. It is wise to keep an extra bottle of motor oil, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid in the trunk for emergency refills.

#2 Tires

It is critical to check your tire quality and condition before leaving on a long-distance road trip. First, be sure that your tires have been properly rotated and balanced. This is good for alignment, fuel efficiency, and drivability, and more. Next, be sure your tires are properly inflated. Under or over-inflated tires can cause several problems, and unexpected blow outs. Properly inflated tires prevent accidents and injuries, and improve fuel efficiency, vehicle performance, and more.

#3 Emergency Road Kit

Every vehicle should be equipped with an emergency roadside assistance kit, as well as, additional emergency supplies. As mentioned, it is wise to put an extra bottle of motor oil, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid for needed refills. Furthermore, long-distance trips are bound to bring on surprises, so be ready with a full roadside emergency kit. In addition to these items, be sure your vehicle also has a spare tire, jumper cables, bottled water, extra blankets, and if possible, GPS.

#4 Windows and Mirrors

The windows and mirrors on your vehicle are one of the most vital components for driving safety. Before heading out on your long-distance road trip, be sure that all windows are perfectly clean and clear. It is recommended to spray them with a water-repellent solution for extra clarity during a rainy drive. Additionally, be sure your mirrors are clean and positioned at the proper angles. If you plan to switch driver’s mid-way, be sure to repeat this step again.

Call Our Wrecker Operators for 24 Hour Roadside Assistance in Indiana

If your car breaks down in Indiana at any point during your autumn road trip, call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance and more. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.