Check for Recalls

NHTSA’s Recalls Look-up Tool lets you enter your license plate or vehicle identification number (VIN) to quickly see if your vehicle has a critical safety issue and steps for free repairs. You can also download NHTSA’s SaferCar app and enter your vehicle and equipment information. If a recall is issued, you’ll get an alert on your phone.

Tires

Make sure each tire is filled to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressure, which is listed in your owner’s manual and on a placard located on the driver’s door pillar or door frame; and don’t forget to check your spare if your vehicle is equipped with one. To get an accurate reading, check pressure when tires are cold, meaning they haven’t been driven on for at least three hours. Do not inflate your tires to the pressure listed on the tire itself — that number is the maximum pressure the tire can hold, not the recommended pressure for your vehicle. A tire doesn’t have to be punctured to lose air; all tires naturally lose some air over time. In fact, underinflation is the leading cause of tire failure.

Some other tips:

• Inspect your tires at least once a month and before long road trips.
• Look closely at your tread and replace tires that have uneven wear or insufficient tread.
• Tread should be at least 2/32 of an inch or greater on all tires. Look for the built-in wear bar indicators or use the penny test to determine when it’s time to replace your tires. Place a penny in the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your vehicle needs new tires. If you find uneven wear across the tires’ tread, it means your tires need rotation and/or your wheels need to be aligned before you travel.
• Check each tire’s age. Some vehicle manufacturers recommend replacing tires every six years, regardless of use.
• Since electric vehicles are typically heavier than gas-powered vehicles, they require EV-specific tires to bear the weight, maximize performance and electric range, all while minimizing tire noise. Whether the vehicle is gas-powered, electric-powered, or a hybrid, all tires require similar maintenance. Low-rolling-resistance tires for conventional vehicles could also have lower tread life.

An inspection is not just about checking tire pressure and age. Remember to check:

• for any damage or conditions that may need attention;
• the tread and sidewalls for any cuts, punctures, bulges, scrapes, cracks, or bumps. The tread should be at least 2/32 of an inch or greater on all tires; and
• your spare tire and car jack kit.

If you find tire damage, take your vehicle to a tire professional.

Cooling System

Make sure you have enough coolant inside your vehicle, and that the coolant meets the manufacturer’s specifications. Check your vehicle owner’s manual for specific recommendations. You or a mechanic should check the cooling system for leaks, test the coolant, and drain or replace old coolant as needed.

Fluid Level

If you drive a conventional vehicle or a hybrid, be sure to check your vehicle’s oil level periodically. If it’s around the time to have the oil changed, now would be a good time to do it. Also, check fluid levels in the following:

• brake
• automatic transmission or clutch
• power steering (if hydraulic)
• windshield washer

Make sure each reservoir is full; if you see any signs of fluid leakage, take your vehicle in to be serviced. Remember, if you drive an electric vehicle, be sure to check applicable fluid levels, too!

Batteries

Have a mechanic check your battery and charging system, and make any necessary repairs or replacements. For hybrid-electric vehicles, keep gasoline in the tank to support the gasoline engine.

Visit NHTSA’s Hybrid and Electric Vehicle guide for more information on high-voltage batteries.

Lights

Check your headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, and interior lights. Be sure to also check your trailer brake lights and turn signals, if necessary.

Wiper Blades

After the heavy toll imposed by winter storms and spring rains, windshield wiper blades may need to be replaced. Like rubber belts and hoses, wiper blades are vulnerable to the summer heat. Examine your blades for signs of wear and tear on both sides. The blades can also deform and fail to work properly in both directions. If they aren’t in top condition, invest in new ones before you go.