Pre-Trip Safety Check in Spokane WA

Safety should always be a priority when it comes to your vehicle, whether you’re embarking on a road trip, navigating roads in winter or summer or handling everyday commutes.  A comprehensive pre-trip safety check ensures your car is in top condition, giving you peace of mind as you drive.  At Wendle Ford we provide detailed inspections tailored to ensure your vehicle is safe, reliable and performing at its best.  Here’s why a pre-trip safety check is essential and what it covers.

Tires and Wheels: Your Contact with the Road

Your tires and wheels play a critical role in vehicle safety, affecting everything from handling to braking efficiency.  During a pre-trip safety check at Wendle Ford, our technicians:

• Inspect tire tread depth to ensure sufficient grip on wet or icy roads.
• Check tire pressure to prevent uneven wear and maintain fuel efficiency.
• Examine wheels for damage like cracks or bends that could compromise safety.

Maintaining healthy tires and wheels is especially crucial in Spokane’s varying climate, where roads can range from dry and smooth to wet and icy.  For added safety during the snow season, consider switching to winter tires designed for enhanced traction on icy roads.

Alignment: Stay on the Straight and Narrow

A properly aligned vehicle not only ensures a smoother ride but also lends a hand in extending the life of your tires.  Misaligned wheels can cause uneven wear, pulling and reduced fuel efficiency.  Our pre-trip safety check includes a detailed alignment inspection using state-of-the-art equipment.  If adjustments are needed, we’ll let you know so that you can make an informed decision about recalibrating your vehicle.

Signs your alignment might need attention include:

• Pulling to one side while driving.
• Uneven or rapid tire wear.
• A crooked steering wheel when driving straight.

Shocks and Struts: Supporting a Smooth Ride

Shocks and struts are essential for vehicle stability and comfort.  These components absorb road impact, ensuring your wheels remain in contact with the surface for better handling and braking.

During the inspection, our technicians check for:

• Leaking fluid, which indicates wear.
• Visible damage, such as dents or cracks.
• Poor performance, like excessive bouncing after hitting a bump.

If your vehicle feels unstable or has a rough ride, it might be time to replace these components.

Battery: The Heart of Your Vehicle’s Electrical System

A reliable battery is essential for starting your car and powering electrical components like lights and safety systems.  At Wendle Ford, we conduct a thorough battery check, including:

• Voltage testing to ensure the battery can hold a charge.
• Inspection for corrosion on terminals, which can disrupt electrical flow.
• Assessing overall health to prevent unexpected failures.

Spokane winters and summers can be tough on batteries, making regular inspections even more critical to avoid being stranded.

Brakes: Stopping Power You Can Count On

Your brakes are the most important safety feature on your vehicle.  During our pre-trip safety check, we make sure your brake system is in top condition by:

• Inspecting brake pads and rotors for wear.
• Checking brake fluid levels and quality.
• Testing for proper brake response and feel.

If you hear squeaking or grinding noises, feel vibrations when braking or notice reduced stopping power, it’s time to schedule a brake inspection.

Why Choose Wendle Ford for Your Pre-Trip Safety Check

At Wendle Ford, conveniently located in north Spokane, we prioritize your safety and satisfaction.  Here’s what sets us apart:

• Certified Technicians: Our team of experts is trained to handle all aspects of vehicle maintenance and repairs.
• Advanced Equipment: We use cutting-edge diagnostic tools to provide accurate and efficient service.
• Customer-Focused Approach: From clear communication to timely service, we’re dedicated to making your experience hassle-free.
• Comprehensive Inspections: Our pre-trip safety checks cover all critical systems to ensure your vehicle meets safety standards.

Another great reason to use Wendle Ford…we offer a pre-trip safety check for you for FREE!

Additional Tips for Vehicle Safety

• Regular Maintenance: Stay on top of oil changes, filter replacements and other routine services.
• Seasonal Checks: Spokane’s winter and summer can be harsh, so make sure your car is winter-ready with snow tires and a functioning heater and summer-ready with coolant and a cold air conditioner.
• Emergency Kit: Always keep an emergency kit in your car, including a flashlight, jumper cables and a first-aid kit.

Schedule Your FREE Pre-Trip Safety Check Today

Don’t wait for an issue to arise before ensuring your vehicle’s safety.  Schedule a pre-trip safety check at Wendle Ford today.  Whether you’re planning for a long drive or just want to stay ahead of potential problems, our expert team is here to help.

Give us a call or schedule your appointment online.  Let Wendle Ford keep you and your family safe on the road!