Service technician diagnosing vehicle using tablet

Is Your Car Too Old for a Road Trip?
How to Decide

Planning a summer road trip from Kansas City? Whether you're heading to Lake of the Ozarks, exploring the Kansas Flint Hills, or taking a scenic drive through Ha Ha Tonka State Park, one crucial question deserves consideration: Is my car too old for a road trip? At Lee's Summit Honda, we help drivers across Missouri, Kansas and beyond make informed decisions about their current vehicle's reliability and road trip readiness.

So is your car ready for a road trip? The answer depends on several factors including your vehicle's age, mileage, maintenance history and recent repair needs. Our Honda-certified technicians can evaluate the current condition of your Honda Passport, Civic or HR-V and help you determine whether it's ready for the journey ahead or if it might be time to consider an upgrade.

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Signs Your Car May Be Too Old for Long Road Trips

Several warning signs indicate your vehicle might not be the best choice for extended travel:

Age and Mileage Factors:

  • Cars over 10 years old or with more than 150,000 miles on the odometer may face increased breakdown risks
  • Frequent recent repairs or ongoing mechanical issues
  • Original major components (transmission, engine, AC system) nearing end of expected lifespan

Performance Red Flags:

  • Unreliable starting or engine hesitation
  • Overheating during city driving or highway speeds
  • Poor fuel economy that makes long trips expensive
  • Air conditioning struggles during hot summer weather
  • Worn tires or suspension issues affecting handling

If these multiple warning signs apply to your vehicle, it may be time to explore your service and upgrade options before hitting the road.

Road Trip Service Checklist for Older Vehicles

Before deciding whether your car is road-trip ready, schedule service with our experienced team for a comprehensive inspection. Our road trip preparation checklist includes:

  • Engine oil and filter change: Fresh oil prevents engine damage during long drives
  • Brake system inspection: Essential for mountain driving and emergency stops
  • Tire rotation and pressure check: Proper inflation improves fuel economy and prevents blowouts
  • Coolant system service: Prevents overheating in summer heat and stop-and-go traffic
  • Battery and charging system test: Avoid being stranded with a dead battery
  • Air conditioning performance check: Stay comfortable during hot Midwest summers
  • Transmission fluid inspection: Critical for smooth highway cruising

These preventive services can often extend your current vehicle's life and road trip reliability, potentially saving you from an unplanned upgrade.

Honda service technician replacing oil in vehicle
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When It's Time to Upgrade: Best Honda for Road Trips

If your vehicle assessment reveals significant concerns, trading up to a reliable Honda might be your best option for worry-free travel. Consider these popular new Honda vehicles perfect for road tripping:

  • Honda CR-V: Ideal for family road trips with excellent fuel economy, spacious cargo area and Honda Sensing® safety features standard. The new CR-V is a great option for navigating everything from Kansas City traffic to winding Ozark mountain roads.
  • Honda Pilot: The Pilot boasts three-row seating that accommodates larger families, while the robust V6 engine handles heavy loads and trailer towing for camping adventures.
  • Honda Accord: This iconic Honda sedan combines impressive fuel efficiency with comfortable highway cruising, plus advanced driver assistance features for long-distance confidence.

Don't overlook our quality selection of used cars for sale either; a well-maintained pre-owned Honda can offer excellent road trip reliability at a more accessible price point.

Making the Right Choice for Your Next Adventure

The decision between servicing your current vehicle vs. upgrading to a new or used Honda depends on your specific situation, budget and peace of mind preferences. Our team can help you weigh the costs of necessary repairs against the benefits of a newer, more reliable vehicle.

Ready to determine if your car is road trip ready? Contact us to discuss your specific needs and explore all available options. Whether through expert service or a vehicle upgrade, Lee's Summit Honda ensures your next adventure begins with confidence and reliability.

Read More: Why Choose Lee's Summit Honda? | Our Staff Picks
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