5 Hidden Warning Signs Your Car Needs Service Before Summer Travel

Your summer getaways should be smooth, fun, and stress-free! The last thing you need is a car issue on I-95 with the kids in the backseat and luggage on the roof. That’s why we’re sharing five easily overlooked red flags your car might be throwing your way before something goes seriously wrong!

1. Your A/C Isn’t Ice Cold—Fast

If your A/C takes a few minutes to kick in or doesn’t feel refrigerator-level cold, it’s not just annoying—it’s a sign your refrigerant, compressor, or cabin filter may be underperforming. In a heatwave, this goes from “mildly uncomfortable” to “family mutiny.”

2. Soft Brake Pedal or Slight Squeal

You know your car. If the Brakes feel less responsive or you hear even a faint squeal when slowing down—it’s time. Heat + elevation + a loaded car can expose marginal Brakes fast.

Why it matters: Brake fade at highway speeds isn’t just dangerous—it’s terrifying with your family in the car.

3. Weird Tire Vibes or Pulling Slightly

Feel a Vibration at higher speeds? Does your car drift a bit when you let go of the wheel? That could mean Tire Wear, Misalignment, or Suspension Imbalance. On long trips, that minor issue becomes major fatigue—and major safety risk. You might want to get a pre-trip Alignment and Tire Inspection. It’s quick, affordable, and could save your Tires and your Steering!

4. Unusual Smells—Even Once

Burning Oil. Hot rubber. Sweet Coolant. Any weird scent that shows up and disappears? That’s your Car whispering, “Check me now.”

Don’t wait for it to shout by stalling in the middle of nowhere with kids asking when you’ll be there.

5. You’re Just Not Sure It’s Trip-Ready

If you’re second-guessing your car at all, that’s a sign. Confidence matters—especially when you’ve got a full schedule, a loaded vehicle, and precious cargo on board.

Peace of mind is worth more than the service bill. A trusted inspection now means a stress-free summer later.

Don’t roll the dice with your family’s safety—or your vacation timeline. At Glenwood Foreign Car, we specialize in pre-trip safety checks for Audi, BMW, and other high-performance vehicles. We’ll give you the all-clear (or the quick fixes you need) with zero upsell pressure.

The only surprises you should deal with on vacation…are extra scoops of ice cream!🍦