Adobe stock imageMore than 50 million Americans are expected to travel in the coming weeks, and local mechanics are urging drivers to prepare their vehicles before hitting the road.With temperatures climbing into the mid-90s across the Midwest, experts said the heat can put extra strain on cars during long summer trips."Next week we've got 95, 96 degrees — and that's just actual temperature, right?" said Travis Troy, co-owner of the auto repair chain Honest Wrenches.AdvertisementAdvertisementTroy said when you factor in hot pavement and friction, conditions can quickly become more extreme."That's when you can start to have the failures occur," he said.While tires are often a primary concern in high heat, Troy said they are not the only part of a vehicle affected."Heat actually is what kills batteries, and they just happen to finally fail in the winter," he said.He also advises drivers to keep a close eye on their fuel levels and hopes that relatively low gas prices mean drivers won't wait to fill up."I'm really big on, if I'm at a half tank or a little under, I'm pulling over," Troy said.AdvertisementAdvertisementThat precaution can make a difference during heavy travel periods, when unexpected delays can leave drivers stranded."When you're going on a long road trip, you never know when you may come up on an accident on the side of the interstate or something like that where you may get stuck," he said.The reminder comes as millions of travelers are expected to pack the roads this summer."4.3 million are going to be driving, just short of 200,000 are going to be taking to the air," said Brian Ortner, a spokesperson for AAA.Ortner said gas prices could still fluctuate as the Fourth of July holiday approaches, despite recent declines.AdvertisementAdvertisement"Obviously, volatility is still something we've seen," he said.Even with that uncertainty, demand for travel remains strong."Vacation is a category where consumers are still willing to spend," Ortner said.With more vehicles on the road, Troy said taking preventative steps now can help drivers avoid bigger problems later."Yes, it does become too late," he said.He recommends having a vehicle inspected before leaving on a long trip to reduce the risk of breakdowns or delays caused by needed repairs or parts shortages.
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