Your Ultimate Summer Road Trip Guide for Ford Owners in Platte City
Schedule a Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
Before heading out on a summer road trip, make sure your Ford is road-ready. At Thoroughbred Ford Platte City, our service team can perform a complete checkup—tires, fluids, battery, brakes, belts, lights, and A/C. Catching issues early keeps your trip stress-free and avoids breakdowns on Missouri highways or national park routes.
Check Your Tires and Inflate for Heat
Tires expand in heat, and improper pressure affects safety and gas mileage. Check PSI levels before a long trip, especially when traveling from cooler Platte City mornings into hotter southern climates. Also inspect tread depth and sidewalls for signs of wear or damage.
Top Off All Fluids and Replace Filters
Summer driving increases engine and cabin demand. Make sure oil, coolant, brake, and washer fluids are all topped off. Replace your cabin air filter for better airflow and reduced allergy symptoms on long drives.
Pack a Roadside Emergency Kit
Prepare for unexpected delays with a stocked kit including jumper cables, tire sealant, flares or reflectors, water, snacks, a flashlight, USB charger, and a first-aid kit. Your Ford may include FordPass® roadside assistance, but it’s smart to be self-reliant in remote areas.
Use Ford Navigation and SYNC® Features
Take advantage of built-in SYNC® tech for navigation, hands-free calling, and entertainment. Use voice commands to find food, gas, and hotels without distraction. Download offline maps and update software before your trip to avoid dead zones or outdated info on backroads.
Prep for Family Comfort and Entertainment
Bring travel pillows, snacks, USB cords, and games for kids. Install sunshades to reduce glare, and load playlists or audiobooks. Ford’s available Wi-Fi hotspot and rear-seat entertainment in vehicles like the Explorer or Expedition help keep everyone entertained on the road.
Plan Fuel Stops and Charging for EVs
If you’re driving an EV like the Mustang Mach-E or F-150 Lightning, use Ford’s BlueOval™ Charge Network planning tools. Map out fast-charging locations ahead of time, especially in rural areas or across state lines. Public charging is growing—but planning reduces range anxiety.
Know the Best Summer Road Trip Routes from Platte City
Top summer getaways from Platte City include:
• Lake of the Ozarks
• Branson, MO
• Badlands National Park (via I-29)
• Colorado Rockies
• Gulf Coast beaches (Texas & Florida)
We’ll help you prep your Ford for all of them—whether you’re towing a boat or loading the family up for a cross-country journey.
Stop by Thoroughbred Ford Before You Go
Visit us before your summer trip for a pre-trip inspection, tire rotation, oil change, and anything else your Ford might need. We’ll make sure you’re road trip–ready with confidence, comfort, and peace of mind.
Questions and Answers
What should I include in a summer road trip kit?
Include water, snacks, jumper cables, first-aid, flashlight, tire tools, charger cords, and travel games.
Can Thoroughbred Ford inspect my vehicle before a trip?
Yes. We offer multi-point inspections and service specials tailored for summer travel.
Is FordPass® useful on a road trip?
Absolutely. It helps with roadside assistance, locating fuel, scheduling service, and remote vehicle management.
Where can I find charging stations for my Ford EV?
Use the BlueOval™ Charge Network in your vehicle or app to map charging stations across the country.
Connect with us
