Deacon Jones GM of Smithfield Chevrolet

Blog

Summer Maintenance Tips Before Your Next North Carolina Road Trip

Chevy service before summer travels

Summer is one of the best times to hit the road in North Carolina. Whether you're planning a family vacation to the Outer Banks, a mountain getaway near Asheville, or a weekend trip to Wilmington, a little vehicle preparation can help make your journey safer and more enjoyable.

Long drives, high temperatures, and heavy traffic can place additional demands on your vehicle. Before packing your bags and heading out, it's important to ensure your vehicle is ready for the miles ahead.

Here are a few maintenance tips every North Carolina driver should consider before their next summer road trip.

Check Your Tires Before You Travel

Your tires are one of the most important safety components on your vehicle. Summer heat can increase tire pressure, while worn tread can reduce traction during sudden rainstorms that are common throughout North Carolina.

Before your trip:

  • Check tire pressure and adjust it to the manufacturer's recommendations
  • Inspect tread depth for signs of wear
  • Look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear patterns
  • Don't forget to inspect the spare tire

Properly maintained tires can improve handling, fuel efficiency, and overall driving confidence.

Schedule an Oil Change if You're Due

A road trip can quickly add hundreds of miles to your odometer. If you're approaching your next oil change interval, scheduling service before you leave can help protect your engine during extended highway driving.

Fresh oil helps:

  • Reduce engine wear
  • Maintain performance
  • Improve efficiency
  • Support proper engine cooling

If you're unsure whether your vehicle is due for service, the team at Deacon Jones GM of Smithfield Chevrolet can help determine the right maintenance schedule for your vehicle.

Test Your Battery

Summer heat can be just as hard on a battery as winter cold. High temperatures may accelerate battery wear and increase the risk of unexpected failure.

Warning signs of a weak battery include:

  • Slow engine cranking
  • Dim headlights
  • Dashboard warning lights
  • Corrosion around battery terminals

A quick battery inspection can help prevent inconvenient breakdowns during your vacation.

Inspect Your Brakes

Road trips often involve stop-and-go traffic, construction zones, and unfamiliar roads. Having responsive brakes is essential for safe travel.

Consider scheduling a brake inspection if you notice:

  • Squealing or grinding noises
  • Increased stopping distances
  • Brake pedal vibration
  • A soft or spongy brake pedal

Addressing brake concerns before a trip can provide added peace of mind for you and your passengers.

Check Your Cooling System

North Carolina summers can bring long stretches of high temperatures, especially when traveling inland. Your cooling system works hard to prevent your engine from overheating.

Before your trip, inspect:

  • Coolant levels
  • Radiator hoses
  • Belts
  • Signs of leaks

A properly functioning cooling system can help your vehicle handle summer heat more effectively during long drives.

Replace Worn Wiper Blades

Summer weather in North Carolina can change quickly. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially during June, July, and August.

If your wiper blades leave streaks, skip across the windshield, or make excessive noise, it may be time for replacement.

Clear visibility is essential when sudden rain showers appear during highway travel.

Verify All Exterior Lights Are Working

Before setting out, walk around your vehicle and check:

  • Headlights
  • Brake lights
  • Turn signals
  • Reverse lights
  • Hazard lights

Working lights help improve visibility and communication with other drivers, especially during nighttime travel or severe weather.

Pack an Emergency Travel Kit

Even well-maintained vehicles can encounter unexpected situations. Consider keeping these items in your vehicle:

  • Flashlight
  • Phone charger
  • First-aid kit
  • Bottled water
  • Jumper cables
  • Basic tools
  • Emergency contact information

A small emergency kit can make a big difference if you encounter an issue away from home.

Don't Forget Your Air Conditioning

Nothing can make a summer road trip uncomfortable faster than an underperforming air conditioning system.

If you notice:

  • Weak airflow
  • Warm air from the vents
  • Unusual odors
  • Strange noises

It may be time to have your HVAC system inspected before your trip begins.

Get Road-Trip Ready at Deacon Jones GM of Smithfield Chevrolet

Before you head out on your next North Carolina adventure, make sure your vehicle is ready for the journey. From oil changes and tire inspections to brake service and battery testing, the service team at Deacon Jones GM of Smithfield Chevrolet is here to help keep your vehicle performing its best.

Whether you're traveling to the coast, the mountains, or somewhere in between, a little preparation today can help you enjoy a smoother and safer trip tomorrow.

Schedule your summer maintenance visit with Deacon Jones GM of Smithfield Chevrolet and travel with confidence all season long.

Recommended Posts

2026 Chevy EVs

Why Chevy's Electric Lineup Deserves a Closer Look

If you want to make the switch to an electric vehicle, explore Chevrolet EV models near Smithfield, NC at Deacon Jones GM of Smithfield. Chevy offers a full electric lineup covering diverse needs and lifestyles. First-time shoppers and returning owners will find options worth considering. The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV: An Accessible Entry Point The Chevy Equinox EV serves as an approachable electric vehicle with a familiar mid-size SUV format. It features a 17.7" center touchscreen with Google built-in, a standard dual-level charge cord, and access to over 250,000 public charging stations across North America. This model fits daily life for drivers throughout Smithfield, NC. The 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV: Performance Meets Practicality The Blazer EV offers style and performance in LT, RS, and SS trims. The LT and RS deliver up to 312 miles of EPA-estimated range with front-wheel drive. The top-tier SS reaches 60 miles per hour from a standstill in 3.4 seconds using Wide Open Watts performance mode, delivering 615 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. Max cargo space reaches 59.1 cubic feet with rear seats folded. Technology That Keeps You Connected The Blazer EV includes a standard 17.7" center touchscreen running Google built-in for Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store. OnStar Basics provides automatic crash response, remote commands, and real-time navigation. Available Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology comes standard on the SS. Charging Made Simple The Blazer EV and Equinox EV include a standard NACS charge port for Tesla Superchargers and the broader public network. Drivers can use a Level 1 or Level 2 connection via the dual-level charge cord. The myChevrolet mobile app assists with route planning and finding public chargers. Safety Features You Can Count On Both models include Chevy Safety Assist standard, bundling Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, IntelliBeam Auto High Beams, and a Following Distance Indicator. Come See the Chevrolet Electric Lineup in Person Explore Chevrolet EV models near Smithfield, NC at Deacon Jones GM of Smithfield today. Visit the dealership to take a test drive and experience the Chevrolet electric lineup in person.

new Chevy SUVs for sale near me

Exploring New Chevrolet SUVs for Sale in Smithfield, NC

Navigating school pickups, weekend road trips, or daily commutes requires an SUV built for your life. Drivers looking for Chevrolet SUVs for sale in Smithfield, NC will find a capable, tech-forward lineup covering everything from compact crossovers to spacious three-row haulers. For those seeking the perfect match, Deacon Jones GM of Smithfield is your trusted local source. Here is a closer look at some new Chevrolet models worth considering. The Chevy Equinox: Everyday Versatility at a Comfortable Size The Chevy Equinox is a well-rounded option in the Chevrolet SUV lineup. It seats five and is powered by an efficient 1.5 L turbocharged engine producing 175 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. Available all-wheel drive adds confidence on slick or uneven roads. Inside, you will find an 11.3" infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay© and Android Auto© compatibility. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel come standard, and wireless phone charging is available. The Equinox includes over 15 standard safety and driver assistance features, such as Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Forward Collision Alert. Trim options include the LT, the sporty RS with blacked-out styling cues, and the adventure-ready ACTIV featuring all-terrain tires and a uniquely tuned suspension. When properly equipped, it tows up to 1,500 pounds, which is handy for light hauling needs. The Chevy Traverse: Three Rows Built for Family Life Families needing more room will appreciate the Chevy Traverse, which delivers three rows of seating and an impressive 98 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume. It seats up to eight passengers on the LT trim, making it a natural fit for active lifestyles. The Traverse is powered by a turbocharged 2.5 L engine with 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. A standard towing capacity of 5,000 pounds rounds out its capability credentials. Technology is a strong suit here. A standard 17.7" touchscreen, wireless phone charging, and second-row USB ports easily keep everyone connected. The RS trim adds available Super Cruise© hands-free driver assistance technology, while the Z71 brings off-road suspension, Terrain Mode, and Hill Descent Control for venturing beyond paved roads. Every Traverse includes over 20 standard safety features. Finding the Right Chevy SUV for Your Needs Choosing between the Equinox and Traverse comes down to your primary needs. The Equinox is a nimble, efficient choice with plenty of tech and comfort features for daily driving. The Traverse steps up with more passenger space, stronger towing capacity, and added capability options. Chevrolet SUVs span a range of needs and budgets, so one of these models will likely check all your boxes. Visit Deacon Jones GM of Smithfield to Find Your Chevy SUV Drivers throughout Smithfield, NC can explore the full lineup of new Chevrolet models at Deacon Jones GM of Smithfield. If the Chevy Equinox, Chevy Traverse, or another Chevrolet SUV catches your eye, our team will help you find the perfect fit. Stop by, browse our current inventory online, or request a test drive to experience these capable SUVs for yourself.

2026 Chevrolet Colorado

Which Chevrolet Truck Is Built for Your Summer Adventures?

Summer has a way of expanding the to-do list. One weekend you're launching a boat before sunrise, the next you're towing a camper into the mountains or loading dirt bikes for a trail ride. If you're preparing for your next adventure around Goldsboro, NC, comparing our inventory of new Chevrolet trucks is a great place to find the model that matches how you spend your weekends. 2026 Chevrolet Colorado: Compact Size, Serious Capability The 2026 Chevrolet Colorado proves that a midsize pickup doesn't have to compromise on performance. Every Colorado is powered by Chevrolet's 2.7L TurboMax™ engine, producing 310 hp and a class-leading 430 lbs.-ft. of torque. Properly equipped models can tow up to 7,700 lbs., giving the Colorado the ability to pull fishing boats, utility trailers, small campers, and recreational equipment with confidence. more Drivers who enjoy exploring beyond the pavement have several capable trims to choose from. The Trail Boss adds a factory-installed 2-inch lift, 32-inch all-terrain tires, and multiple selectable drive modes for improved off-road performance. Step up to the ZR2, and the Colorado becomes a remarkably capable trail machine with a 3-inch factory lift, Multimatic DSSV™ dampers, 33-inch mud-terrain tires, and an exclusive Baja drive mode engineered for higher-speed off-road driving. Practical details make just as much difference during everyday use. The available StowFlex® tailgate includes a lockable storage compartment, the bed offers up to 17 available tie-downs, and the mid-position tailgate can support loads up to 500 lbs., making it easier to transport motorcycles, plywood, or longer building materials. If off-road capability is high on your priority list, it's worth comparing the Colorado alongside our available Chevrolet Trail Boss and ZR2 models. 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Ready for Bigger Jobs For drivers who regularly tow larger trailers or carry heavier payloads, the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 delivers the capability expected from a full-size pickup. Its four available powertrains allow buyers to prioritize efficiency, towing performance, or everyday drivability. The available Duramax® 3.0L Turbo-Diesel produces 305 hp and 495 lbs.-ft. of torque, while properly equipped Silverado 1500 models can tow up to 13,300 lbs. and carry payloads up to 2,260 lbs. Chevrolet also continues to lead with trailering technology. Available features include up to 14 camera views, Trailer Side Blind Zone Alert, the In-Vehicle Trailering App, and available Super Cruise® driver assistance technology that can assist on compatible highways while towing a properly equipped trailer. The Durabed® remains one of the truck's standout features, providing a class-leading 89.1 cu. ft. of standard cargo volume along with 12 standard tie-downs rated at 500 lbs. each. Available on select trims, the Multi-Flex Tailgate offers six configurable functions that simplify loading, unloading, and accessing the bed. Drivers planning to tow frequently may also benefit from exploring our Chevrolet towing and trailering resources before choosing a configuration. Technology That Works as Hard as the Truck Capability is only part of the story. Long drives become noticeably easier when the truck is equipped with technology that reduces fatigue and keeps drivers informed. Both the Colorado and Silverado 1500 feature large infotainment displays with Google built-in compatibility, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, available Wi-Fi® hotspot capability, and digital driver information displays that keep essential vehicle and trailering data within easy view. Standard Chevy Safety Assist includes Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Following Distance Indicator, providing added confidence whether you're commuting to work or towing a trailer across the state. Find Your Next Chevrolet Truck at Deacon Jones GM of Smithfield Chevrolet Every adventure calls for a different kind of truck. If it’s the agile Colorado or the full-size Silverado 1500 that better fits your lifestyle, the team at Deacon Jones GM of Smithfield Chevrolet can help you compare inventory, towing capabilities, available technology, and schedule a test drive online to find the Chevrolet truck that's ready for everything summer has in store.