Summer Maintenance Checklist

The last thing you want on your next summer road trip is to have your vehicle break down on the side of the road. This is why, before you set off, you should make sure your vehicle has been fully tuned-up, and is ready for the rigours of summer driving. The team here at Key Yorkton Kia has helpfully put together a quick checklist of everything you should have checked before your summer adventures, so you can hit the highway with confidence. You may also be curious about how much your Kia can tow. 

Learn more about Kia Maintenance Service at Kia.ca.

• Fluids

Every spring, you should get your oil and other fluids checked after the winter driving season, but if you haven’t done so, now is the time. All your vehicle’s fluids should get topped up and examined, not just the oil! This includes brake and power steering fluid, transmission fluid, coolant, and washer fluid. This will help keep the vehicle driving efficiently and smoothly, and avoid problems while driving in the hot summer sun.

• Tires

The Key Yorkton Kia team will always take a look at your tire quality when you have your seasonal tires swapped in the spring, but if you drive all-seasons year-round, you should have them checked out before your longer summer trips. You want to ensure there are no signs of obvious wear or damage, and that they’ve been topped up to the recommended PSI. Don’t neglect your spare tire or donut, too! You want it to be full and ready to use if the need arises.

• Brakes

Brake fluid was already mentioned above, but you should also have your brake pads examined every 50,000 km. Watch out for common symptoms of brake problems as well, such as a spongy brake pedal, or loud grinding or scraping noises when you hit the brakes. If you notice any issues, get your brakes serviced as soon as possible.

• Electrical and Lighting

Have your battery checked out to ensure it’s still holding a charge. If it’s older, or has any obvious signs of corrosion or swelling, you might consider replacing it before you set out. Make sure all your switches and features are working as intended. While you’re having the electrical system examined, make sure to check your interior and exterior lights are also all working properly. Keep in mind, it is illegal in several Canadian jurisdictions to drive with burnt-out headlights.

• A/C

Summer driving is much more pleasant with a working A/C system. You should have it checked out to ensure the fans are working properly, but also consider getting the ventilation system flushed out to clear out dust, dirt, and other contaminants which could impact you and your passengers.

• Clean

Give your Kia a bath! Get all the winter grime off the exterior to help preserve the body, and don’t neglect the undercarriage. Also, clean out the interior. Vacuum up the dirt and debris, give it a dusting, and clear out any garbage. This will not only make the interior more comfortable during a long drive, it can reduce the amount of dust and dirt the A/C will be blowing around.

Get Tuned Up in Yorkton, SK

Before you take your vehicle out for your next summer road trip, book a service appointment with the certified technicians here at Key Yorkton Kia in Yorkton, SK. Rely on us for all your service, maintenance, and repair needs!

Learn more about Kia Maintenance Service at Kia.ca.