How to Prepare Your Vehicle for the WA Summer Road Trip

29 Nov

Nothing beats a WA summer road trip — open roads, coastal views, and sunshine for days. But before you load up the car, it’s smart to make sure your vehicle’s ready for the heat. At Auto Response Stratton, we help drivers across Perth Hills prepare for long-distance travel safely and confidently.

Here’s a quick checklist to get your vehicle road-trip ready.

1. Check Tyres and Alignment

Hot roads and long distances can accelerate tyre wear. Make sure your tyres are:

Properly inflated (check cold pressure)
Free from cracks or uneven wear
Rotated and aligned for safe handling

We can perform a tyre and suspension check to ensure your car tracks straight and rides smoothly.

2. Inspect Cooling and Air Conditioning Systems

Summer heat pushes both systems hard. Have your coolant levels, radiator hoses, and thermostat checked for leaks or ageing. Also ensure your air conditioning gas and filters are in good shape — nobody wants a long trip without cold air.

3. Test Battery Health

WA heat shortens battery life significantly. We run battery load tests to make sure your battery and charging system are up to the task — especially if your car’s been sitting or doing short trips.

4. Top Up Essential Fluids

Check and top up:

Engine oil
Transmission fluid
Brake fluid
Power steering fluid
Windscreen washer
These checks keep your engine protected and your trip stress-free.

5. Plan for Dust and Long Distances

Heading north or inland? Dusty conditions mean your air filter and cabin filter need to be clean and efficient. We also recommend carrying extra coolant, oil, and a basic emergency kit.

Bonus Tip: Schedule a Pre-Trip Inspection

A quick visit to Auto Response Stratton before you hit the road can catch small issues like belt wear, coolant leaks, or brake fade — before they ruin your holiday.

Our full Pre-Trip Safety Check covers all critical systems and gives you confidence your vehicle’s ready for the long haul.