Get Your Kia Road-Trip Ready: A Summer Service Guide from Kia of Newmarket

Summer road trips are calling, and Newmarket families are already planning their escapes to Muskoka lakes, Sauble Beach, and cottage country. Before you load up the SUV and head north, essential pre-trip service checks ensure your Kia performs reliably throughout the summer season.

Hot weather and long-distance driving place extra demands on key vehicle systems. A comprehensive service inspection addresses these challenges, giving you confidence for every journey this season.

Air Conditioning System Check

Your air conditioning system faces its biggest test during summer driving. A thorough inspection includes checking refrigerant levels, examining belts and hoses for wear, and testing cooling performance to ensure your cabin stays comfortable on hot Highway 400 drives to cottage country.

A properly functioning AC system removes humidity from the cabin, preventing foggy windows during temperature changes between air-conditioned interiors and warm outdoor air. The cabin air filter also requires inspection, as it traps dust, pollen, and particles that can reduce air quality and system efficiency.

Tire Rotation and Safety Inspection

Summer driving means more kilometres, heavier loads, and higher temperatures – all factors that increase tire wear. Professional tire rotation ensures even wear patterns, extending tire life and maintaining optimal traction for highway driving and cottage road adventures.

The inspection covers tread depth, unusual wear patterns, and sidewall examination for damage or aging. Proper tire pressure becomes crucial for fuel efficiency and safety, especially when carrying extra gear for week-long cottage stays. Your spare tire condition and pressure also receive verification during this service.

Brake System Performance Check

Summer driving often involves more stop-and-go traffic as families head to popular destinations. A comprehensive brake inspection includes checking pad thickness, rotor condition, and brake fluid levels to ensure reliable stopping power when you need it most.

Mountain driving in cottage country places extra demands on your braking system. Professional technicians test brake performance under various conditions and recommend any needed services to keep your family safe on winding roads and steep hills. The parking brake system also receives attention, which proves important when camping or staying at properties with sloped driveways.

Essential Summer Service Areas

Fluids and Filters:

• Engine oil and filter change
• Coolant system flush and inspection
• Brake fluid condition check
• Power steering fluid level verification
• Windshield washer fluid top-up

Battery and Electrical Systems:

• Battery load test and terminal cleaning
• Alternator and starter inspection
• Lights and electrical system verification

Belts and Hoses:

• Serpentine belt condition and tension check
• Radiator and heater hose inspection
• AC system hose examination

Long-Distance Travel Preparation

Extended drives to places like Blue Mountain or Georgian Bay require additional attention to vehicle preparation. Exhaust system inspection, suspension component checks, and safety system verification ensure reliable performance during extended travel.

Reviewing your vehicle's maintenance schedule helps identify any upcoming services that might be due during summer travels. Completing these services before departure prevents vacation interruptions and ensures optimal vehicle performance.

Benefits of Pre-Trip Servicing

Comprehensive summer service checks provide peace of mind during peak travel season. You avoid roadside breakdowns, ensure optimal fuel efficiency for budget-conscious families, and protect your investment in your Kia vehicle.

Summer servicing helps identify potential problems before they become expensive repairs. Catching issues early saves money and prevents the inconvenience of major repairs during prime vacation season.

Schedule Your Summer Service

Don't let vehicle problems derail your summer plans. Contact our service department at Kia of Newmarket to schedule your pre-trip inspection and ensure your vehicle is ready for every adventure this season.

To learn more about Kia Scheduled Maintenance, visit Kia.ca