Mar 22, 2024
A guy preparing for a road trip with his dog in his 2024 Nissan Rogue near San Leandro, CA

Planning a road trip in your Nissan? Awesome! But before you start dreaming about those scenic stops and playlists, there’s some prep work to do at the Nissan dealer. Here’s a straightforward guide to Nissan maintenance that’ll help you avoid any unwanted pit stops and keep your trip running smoothly.

Keep the Juice Flowing with a Battery Check

Kick things off by checking your battery’s connections are tight and looking clean. Spot any crusty stuff? That’s corrosion and it’s got to go. If messing with batteries isn’t your thing, no worries! A quick trip to a pro can sort it out. If your battery is older than three years, a quick checkup can save you from drama on your trip.

Peek at the Belts and Hoses

Those belts and hoses under the hood? They’re more important than they look, keeping essential systems like your power steering and cooling in check. Give them a once-over for any signs of wear like cracks or looseness. Your owner’s manual might also have some clues on when replacements are due, so keep that handy.

Fluids and Filters Are Essential

Your car’s fluids, like oil, transmission fluid, and even wiper fluid, should be topped up and ready to roll. Close to an oil change? Get it done now and hit the road with peace of mind. And don’t forget about the coolant! If it’s looking murky or there are bits floating in it, it might be time for a change. The same goes for your air filter: a clean one means your engine can breathe easily and keep its pep.

Lights, Wipers, and AC

Make sure all your lights are shining bright and replace any that aren’t. Wipers not doing their job? Swap them out for a clear view ahead, rain or shine. And that AC needs to be on its A-game, especially if you’re heading into warm weather. If it’s not as cold as you remember, it might need a little professional love.

Check Your Brakes at the Nissan Dealer

Any weird noises or a brake pedal that feels ‘off’ should be checked out before you set off. Don’t skip checking your brake fluid to keep your stops smooth and safe.

Inspect Your Tires

Properly inflated tires mean a smoother ride and better gas mileage. Check the pressure when the tires are cold for the best read. And that spare? It needs love, too. Use the penny test to check tread depth. Seeing the top of Abe’s head means it’s tire shopping time.

It’s always smart to hit up a pro for a check-up before you take off on a road trip. Call San Leandro Nissan in San Leandro, CA, to schedule inspections or maintenance today.