Why a Trip Inspection Is a Good Idea
March 10, 2019
At Commerce Auto Repair we get a lot of Commerce drivers asking about vehicle trip preparation. That's a big deal. You could be driving through mountains and deserts in some pretty lonely areas around Michigan , so it's important to know that the vehicle is up to the task and won't leave you stranded.
Smart Commerce drivers plan ahead for a major road trip – and there are a lot of things to get ready. Where should you start? You could start with the tires. Look them over for tread wear and check to see that they are properly inflated. Take a quick test drive around Commerce to see if you can feel any vibrations: Are the wheels in balance? Is the car tracking straight? Is the alignment ok? Come to Commerce Auto Repair for a peace-of-mind trip inspection.
9575 Commerce Rd.
Commerce, Michigan 48382
248.363.3749
The next thing is a full service oil change to make sure all of your fluids are topped off and you have fresh oil for the trip. And if your car has over 75,000 miles/120,000 km, you may consider putting in the high-mileage formulation to clean harmful sludge deposits in the engine.
How about your transmission and brakes? Have you had your transmission and brakes inspected in the last six months?
How are your wiper blades? There's nothing like not being able to get rid of the bug juice on a long road trip away from Commerce.
Check your owner's manual for any other recommended services, and have Commerce Auto Repair in Commerce do the multi-point inspection before you head out on your trip.
Consider also having the coolant system serviced at Commerce Auto Repair – you want to stay within the vehicle manufacture’s recommendations. If you're towing a trailer around Michigan you'll want to be keep in mind that you'll be going a long way under severe conditions.
A lot of Commerce drivers overlook severe conditions like towing, Michigan summer heat or driving on dirt roads. Plan ahead for your next road trip – Commerce Auto Repair wants you to get there and back.
Need Service?
More articles from Commerce Auto Repair
Can This Tire Be Saved? A Guide to Tire Repair vs. Replacement
August 2, 2026
When something goes wrong with one of your tires, one of the first things that goes through your head is: Do I have to buy a new tire, or is it possible to save this one with a repair? Understanding when you can have a tire fixed and when you need it replaced can prevent you from driving an unsaf... More
Straight Steering Starts Here
July 26, 2026
Wheel alignment is one of those maintenance items you probably dont notice until something doesnt feel quite right. But alignment plays a major role in how safely and smoothly your vehicle handles. If your wheels arent all pointed in the right direction, everything from steering response to tire ... More
Timing Cover Replacement
July 19, 2026
Your engine has a lot of parts that need to work in harmony in order to keep you powering down the road. Some of those parts need to be protected in order to keep things running smoothly, and one that does the job is called a timing cover. It is in the front of your engine and shields components... More