Those who enjoy long road trips put a lot of stock in the quality and performance of their automobile. After all, they won't get very far if their car is unsafe to drive or won't even start.
Sure, you can rent a minivan or SUV to explore the country, but most people prefer the familiarity of their personal vehicle. With this in mind, it's crucial to ensure your car is up to snuff before embarking on a road trip.
If your car is several years old and looks its age, you might be thinking of throwing in the towel and opting for a trade. However, the mileage of a long road trip will instantly devalue your new ride due to wear and tear. It's better to stick with the car you have.
Let's take a look at seven ways to make an old car feel new again in time for a summer 2021 road trip:
Modifications
Automotive technology has come a long way in a short amount of time. If your vehicle seems outdated, consider investing in parts upgrades and engine modifications. For example, someone driving a 2010 Outback XT can find Subaru aftermarket parts online that improve engine performance and reduce fuel consumption. These upgrades can make a 12-year-old car run like new again, which will go a long way towards making your road trip more enjoyable.
Detailing
One of the most noticeable things about new cars is how clean they are compared to used ones. If dirty carpet, stained headliner, and fouled upholstery have you thinking of upgrading before your road trip, consider opting instead for automotive detailing. For the price of a new pair of shoes, you can pay detailing specialists to clean your car inside and out to the point where it looks like new again. It's like a car wash on steroids.
Tune-Up
Tune-ups - also known as preventive maintenance - not only helps keep your vehicle running longer but also makes it run better as well. That can go a long way for those about to embark on a lengthy road trip. By cleaning or replacing filters, sensors, spark plugs, and other components susceptible to wear and tear, you help the engine achieve peak performance.
New Tires
An extended road trip is sure to cover bumpy backroads, slippery city streets, and other road-related hazards. To minimize the threat and discomfort associated with these conditions, drivers should replace their old tires. Tread depth determines whether or not tires need to be replaced, as well as the age of the tires. Consult a trusted mechanic to determine if your vehicle needs new tires before your trip.
Body Touch-Ups
Dents, scuffs, and scratches add up over time. While there's nothing wrong with considering these to be battle scars you proudly display as a testament to the endurance of your automobile, those who prefer a perfect-looking exterior might want to invest in bodywork before a road trip. A few simple fixes can go a long way in making your car appear as if it just rolled off the assembly line.
Reupholster
Ripped-up seat fabric, worn-out carpeting, and drooping headliners are an eyesore for drivers and passengers. Depending on the degree of damage, damaged upholstery can contribute to discomfort as well as elevated danger. For instance, a chunk of loose carpet could become lodged under one of the pedals, causing the brakes to fail. To make your car safe and comfortable for a road trip, consider repairing or replacing the upholstery. Safety should have priority over comfort, but both should be considered.
Air Freshener
There's something to that "new car smell" and how it can help transform the used car driving experience. Skip the dinky hanging air fresheners found in car wash vending machines and gas station aisles. Instead, go for longer-lasting aroma-producing products sold online and found in automotive supply stores.
Are you gearing up for a road trip this summer? If so, it's essential to ensure your vehicle is ready for the journey. However, that doesn't mean it's time to surrender your existing car and drop a down payment on a new one. There are many ways to make your old car feel new again, just in time for your upcoming adventure.
