End-of-Summer Road Trip? Here’s Your Volkswagen Pre-Trip Service Checklist

August 15th, 2025 by

Planning one last getaway before summer ends? Whether you’re heading down to Cape May, taking a scenic drive through the Poconos, or just spending a long weekend at the Jersey Shore, making sure your Volkswagen is road trip ready is essential.

Before you pack the snacks and hit the highway, take a few minutes to go through our Volkswagen pre-trip service checklist, straight from the experts here at Cherry Hill Volkswagen. These simple checks and services can save you time, money, and stress on the road.

Let’s dive in and get you ready for that perfect end-of-summer adventure.

  1. Schedule an Oil Change and Fluid Top-Off

This one’s at the top for a reason.

If you’re due, or almost due, for an oil change, don’t wait until after your trip. Fresh oil helps keep your engine cool and running smoothly, especially during long drives in hot weather.

Other fluids to check and top off include:

  • Coolant – Prevents overheating
  • Brake fluid – Essential for safe stopping
  • Transmission fluid – Keeps your shifting smooth
  • Windshield washer fluid – Bug season demands it

Not sure where your levels stand? Our team can handle all of this during a quick service visit.

  1. Inspect Your Tires

Your tires are literally where the rubber meets the road, and for road trips, they need to be in top shape.

Before you go, check:

  • Tire tread – Worn tires can be dangerous in wet conditions
  • Tire pressure – Low pressure hurts fuel economy and handling
  • Signs of damage – Look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear

If you’re not confident doing it yourself, swing by Cherry Hill VW and we’ll inspect them for you. We can rotate your tires or recommend a replacement set if needed.

  1. Test the Battery

Hot weather can be just as hard on your battery as cold weather, especially if it’s already aging.

If your battery is over three years old, or you’ve noticed slow starts, it’s time to have it tested. We’ll do it for free at our Cherry Hill service center.

Don’t let a dead battery turn your road trip into a call to roadside assistance, check it now and travel with peace of mind.

  1. Check Your Brakes

Brakes are something you don’t want to second-guess, especially on the highway or in stop-and-go traffic headed into Philadelphia or down the shore.

If you hear squeaking, grinding, or feel vibrations when braking, that’s a red flag.

We’ll inspect your:

  • Brake pads
  • Rotors
  • Brake fluid levels
  • Calipers

…and let you know if anything needs servicing before you hit the road.

  1. Test the Air Conditioning

No one wants to road trip in a car with weak A/C, especially not in August.

Even if it’s blowing cool air, it may not be working as efficiently as it should. Our technicians can:

  • Recharge your refrigerant
  • Check for leaks
  • Clean the A/C system

It’s a small check that makes a huge difference in your driving comfort.

  1. Update Your Navigation and Infotainment System

Heading somewhere new? Make sure your VW navigation system and infotainment features are fully up to date.

If your vehicle has Car-Net or Discover Media, we can check for:

  • Navigation map updates
  • Software updates for your system
  • Connected services setup, including emergency calls and diagnostics

Don’t get stuck with outdated directions or a buggy interface halfway through your trip.

  1. Inspect Windshield Wipers and Lights

Bug splatter. Surprise summer storms. Nighttime highway driving. Your visibility matters.

Take a few minutes to:

  • Test your windshield wipers, if they streak, they need replacing
  • Check all exterior lights (headlights, brake lights, signals)
  • Clean the windshield inside and out

It’s an easy but essential step in making sure you’re safe no matter when or where you drive.

  1. Load Up with Road Trip Accessories

Before you roll out, stop by Cherry Hill Volkswagen’s parts department to grab a few road trip essentials:

  • All-weather floor mats (for messy beach trips)
  • Trunk organizers (for easy packing)
  • Phone mounts (for navigation)
  • Cargo carriers (if you’re traveling with extra gear)

These genuine Volkswagen accessories are designed to fit your model and lifestyle perfectly, and they’ll help you stay organized and comfortable on the road.

Why Choose Cherry Hill Volkswagen for Pre-Trip Service?

We’re more than just a place to buy a car, we’re your local Volkswagen service partner for road trips, daily commutes, and everything in between.

Drivers from Cherry Hill, Mount Laurel, Marlton, Medford, and Philadelphia trust us because:

  • Our VW-certified technicians know your car inside and out
  • We only use OEM Volkswagen parts
  • You can schedule service online, anytime
  • We offer seasonal service specials to help you save

We know your time is valuable, and our team works fast to get you in, out, and on your way, with confidence.

Hitting the Road Soon? Let Us Help You Prep.

Summer might be winding down, but the best adventures often come at the end.

Whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or somewhere in between, let Cherry Hill Volkswagen help you get there safely and comfortably. Our pre-road trip service check is quick, affordable, and easy to schedule.

Book your service online today and enjoy the ride, worry-free.

Because road trips are better when your Volkswagen is ready for the road.

Posted in Community, Service