Why Long Highway Drives Push Your Cooling System, Tires, and Engine Harder than Daily Driving
For a lot of our Arizona locals, it’s officially spring break, which means it’s time for a vacation! While you’re gearing up for your annual road trip, your vehicle is the last thing you want to worry about. However, your car needs just as much prep as you do before taking on the long roads ahead. As far as everyday life goes, your vehicle usage is relatively predictable – to and from work, a couple errands per week, visiting with family, etc. But, when you load up the trunk and hit the highway, your car is about to take on its own version of a stress test.
Consistent 65+ MPH, limited stops, and long drive times have your engine running on maximum capacity for hours on end. Not only is your engine put to the test, but your tires and cooling system are also battling against the extreme Arizona heat.
How Highway Speeds Put Your Engine to the Test
Everyday driving and stop-and-go traffic do take a toll on your vehicle, but it’s not under a heavy load like on the open highway. When driving highway speeds for long periods of time, your engine and coolant must work overtime to keep you going. This means:
- Engine oil is working hard to keep moving parts lubricated and reduce friction
- Coolant is under heat pressure, making it more difficult to prevent overheating
- Transmission components stay hotter longer, making it harder to protect internal parts from wear and tear
- Tires build heat, increasing risk for blowouts – especially for older tires or tires showing signs of wear
- Depending on the terrain of the drive, your brakes could experience higher temperatures and increased stress from long descents, sudden slowdowns, or heavy loads
The "Heat Soak" Factor: Driving in Arizona
Heat soak doesn’t just affect your starter; it can affect every component under your hood. The heat we face here in Arizona is another level, and consistent exposure can break down anything from plastic radiator end-tanks to rubber serpentine belts. Combine the extreme temperatures with prolonged drive times and miles of road ahead, your worn pieces are bound to show themselves at any moment, which can lead to unexpected breakdowns and stressful situations. That’s why these 300+ mile trips are known as a “stress test” on your vehicle.
Don't Let a Small Issue Become a Big Breakdown
Pre-trip inspections aren’t just tactics to fork over money to your local auto repair shop; they are designed to give you confidence on the road and ensure your vehicle is up to the challenge. Driving long distances and embarking on new adventures can be stressful enough, you don’t want to have to worry about your check engine light popping on when you’re miles away from home. Simple, scheduled preventative maintenance can help catch these issues before they become a major repair, which helps you to always stay road ready.
If you are wanting a pre-trip inspection, the ASE-certified technicians at Precision Tire and Auto Center have got you covered! Give us a call at 623-582-4545 today to schedule your appointment!
