Throughout my college years I would hit the road every spring and summer looking for travel, adventure… and of course girls. I was often very grateful for the little bit of planning and maintenance that I did before each trip.
Like the time I got a flat tire in the middle of the Mohave Desert; I was really glad to have a usable spare and a workable jack… that I knew how to operate. Or the time I was caravanning down to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and my brother lost a fan belt in the middle of the Great Smokey Mountains. It was a huge expense and a two-day delay to get one shipped to that little hick town. Glad I had all mine checked and replaced before we hit the road.
Imagine driving all night to get to Phoenix for a two-day concert at Compton Terrace with your buddies and a girl you've been trying to go out with for months. Phoenix, Arizona - palm trees, blue skies and the sun shining bright…I mean REALLY, REALLY bright, like 121 degrees. Well, remember that lower radiator hose that you duck taped in Crested Butte last winter? After 55 minutes of crawling south on Interstate 10 towards the parking lot on pavement so hot you could cook your breakfast, your excellent repair job is history. You miss half of the first day; your favorite band and max your credit card because you have to pay a mechanic and a tow bill. Not Good.Your personal safety is also an issue here. You DO NOT want to be stranded in a dark parking garage in downtown Hollyweird, California at 3 a.m. because your car won't start. Trust me on this one.
Moral of the story folks: Car trouble sucks the fun out of the adventure.
SOLUTION
Basic preventative maintenance offered by your neighborhood Firestone Tire and Auto Centers.
• Complete Vehicle Inspection
• Hoses, belts & brakes
• Replace worn tires/inspect spare
• Major or minor tune-up
• A/C and cooling system
These simple measures can save you time, money and headaches on the road to fun and adventure. They can also save your life. I am sure you have read the unfortunate story of Ennis Cosby. Maintenance is an important safety responsibility for traveling. Don't let your next road trip turn out to be a bummer.
Think ahead so you don't get left behind. HAPPY TRAILS! ...
This article was sponsored by your friendly Southern Colorado FIRESTONE® MASTERCARE CENTERS. Buckle up! |
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