Vehicle Prep for Summer Adventures

Subaru Summer Road Trip

Summer is here again and the road is calling. Subaru drivers everywhere are ready to answer in the form of mountain escapes, camping expeditions, and cross-country road trips.

Subaru vehicles' all-wheel drive (AWD) and safety features that have earned top industry awards make these vehicles perfect for summer adventures. 

At Neil Huffman Subaru, we know how to prepare your Subaru vehicle for whatever summer fun you plan to get up to.

The All-Wheel Drive Advantage: Built for Summer Exploration

Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system maintains stability through challenging terrain—for those whose summer trips will go off the beaten path—as well as tough weather conditions like summer storms. 

By automatically adjusting power distribution to all four wheels, AWD helps vehicles tackle rocky mountain trails, sandy beach-access roads, and muddy campground paths.

To ensure your AWD system is working at its best, our service technicians will inspect tires so that you truly get the most out of the wheels. 

Preparing Your Subaru for Off-Road Summer Adventures

  • Consider upgrading to all-terrain tires

  • Check skid plates and undercarriage protection. Adding extra protection for the oil pan, transmission, and fuel tank can prevent damage when navigating rocky trails.

  • Top off differential and transmission fluids, as these can degrade quicker in the demanding conditions of off-road driving.

  • Adjust your driving technique for off-road conditions. Use X-MODE system if equipped, to optimize engine output, transmission ratios, and AWD power distribution. Maintain steady throttle input and avoid sudden acceleration.

EyeSight Technology: Summer Safety Co-Pilot

Summer road trips involve long hours behind the wheel, unfamiliar routes, and heavy traffic.

Subaru's EyeSight® Driver Assistance Technology monitors traffic, tweaks cruise control, and alerts you if you begin to sway outside your lane.

It truly feels like a second set of eyes when you consider that there are dual color cameras surveying road conditions. 

DriverFocus is a feature that monitors drivers' attention and checks for signs of drowsiness, reminding drivers to focus on the road or take a break. 

Pet Travel Tips for Subaru Adventures

Temperature control is essential. Subaru's efficient air-conditioning system maintains comfortable temperatures, but nonetheless you should plan consistent breaks in shaded areas and rest stops where pets can stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves. Sunshades for rear windows can reduce heat buildup. 

Use a pet barrier, crate, or harness specifically designed for automotive use. Unrestrained pets can hurtle around in sudden stops or accidents, potentially injuring themselves and other passengers. 

A pet travel kit should have water, food, bowls, leash, waste bags, first-aid supplies, and of course any pet medications if necessary. Familiar items like blankets or toys can reduce travel anxiety. 

Include pet-friendly stops when building your plan. Renowned dog parks or animal-friendly recreation areas, and pet-friendly restaurants can make for memorable stops along your road trip.

Going to rest areas can also be good for giving your vehicle a break, as the heat will work your vehicle hard.

Essential Summer Maintenance and Service

Summer's extreme heat and demanding driving conditions require proactive maintenance. 

  • Cooling systems work overtime in hot weather, so keep coolant levels in check. Neil Huffman Subaru's service technicians can inspect the cooling system for leaks and check that radiator fins are clean and unobstructed.

  • Air conditioning deserves special attention before summer trips. We can inspect your AC system and check cabin air filters. Cool cabins can mitigate against driver fatigue, keeping you safe in addition to comfortable. 

  • Tire rotations and pressure checks are a must because hot pavement puts more stress on tires

  • We can test your car battery and clean the terminals. Consider Pack a portable jump starter.

  • We will check all fluid levels including engine oil, brake fluid, and windshield-washer fluid. We can also inspect belts and hoses for signs of wear, as heat can crack these essential components.

Essential Summer-Adventure Kit: What to Pack

  • Emergency kit: first-aid kit, emergency flares and reflective triangles, flashlight with extra batteries, basic toolkit, jumper cables, tire-pressure gauge, spare tire and tire-repair kit.

  • Water, non-perishable snacks, blankets, phone chargers. 

  • Small cooler for perishables and cold drinks. 

  • Sunscreen and insect repellent

  • Wet wipes and small vacuum to keep the interior clean

  • Navigation aids in the event of tech troubles: physical maps, offline-capable GPS device 

  • Portable phone charger or power bank to stay connected during extended off-grid adventures.

  • Entertainment: books, travel games, and downloaded movies or music can turn long roads and traffic jams into enjoyable breaks.

From state parks to national forests to hiking trails, be sure to hit the road with a kit. Wherever you may be going in the wide range of vacation spots across the United States, the ride can still be plenty enjoyable.

Neil Huffman Subaru's summer service puts your vehicle at an advantage on the road!