Holiday Car Care: Tips for Stress-Free Driving

The holidays are here, bringing joyful gatherings, road trips, and maybe even some long-overdue time off. However, the last thing anyone needs during this busy season is unexpected car trouble. To keep your vehicle running smoothly and ensure peace of mind, here are some essential tips to prepare your car for the holidays and what to look out for when it comes to car repair.

1. Schedule a Pre-Holiday Inspection

Before hitting the road, make sure your car is ready for the journey. A professional inspection can identify potential issues before they turn into costly repairs. Key areas to check include:

• Brakes: Ensure your brake pads and rotors are in good condition.
• Tires: Check for proper inflation, tread depth, and signs of wear.
• Fluids: Top off oil, coolant, windshield washer fluid, and brake fluid.
• Battery: Cold weather can drain a weak battery quickly; test its strength and replace it if necessary.

We'll perform a pre-trip inspection at no charge for you! Remember, everyone thinks about this last second, and right before the holidays is one of the busiest days of our month.

2. Pay Attention to Warning Signs

Even minor issues can escalate if ignored. During the holidays, automotive shops are often busy, so addressing warning signs early can save you from a mid-trip breakdown. Common issues to watch for include:

• Unusual noises: Squealing brakes, rattling under the hood, or grinding noises are red flags.
• Dashboard lights: Don’t dismiss warning lights like the check engine light or low tire pressure indicator.
• Fluid leaks: Puddles under your car might indicate a coolant, oil, or transmission fluid issue.

3. Plan Ahead for Repairs

If your car needs repairs, don’t wait until the last minute. Here’s why:

• Shop availability: Automotive repair shops fill up quickly before major holidays. Schedule your appointment early to secure a spot. You can do that right here! https://aops.cc/y1T0XUP
• Parts delays: Specialty parts for European vehicles may take time to order. Factor this into your timeline. Parts vendors also run limited deliveries as well during the holidays.
• Peace of mind: Getting your car repaired in advance ensures you’re not scrambling days before a trip, and avoids the awkward "I told you so" conversation in the car to grandma's house.

4. Rely on a Trusted Automotive Shop

The holidays are stressful enough without worrying about subpar repairs. Choose a shop with a strong reputation for quality and customer service. Look for:

• Quality technicians: Ensure they have the expertise to work on your vehicle, especially if it’s a European model.
• Warranty offerings: A long warranty period shows the shop stands behind its work. We have a 3 year, 36,000 mile nation wide warranty on our repairs.
• Convenience perks: Loaner vehicles and after-hours drop-off options can save you time.

Enjoy the Holidays with Confidence with ABRhouston.com 832-797-9114