A road trip is an exciting way to travel somewhere or explore new places, but nothing puts a damper on the journey like unexpected car trouble. Before you hit the road, taking the time to check your vehicle can prevent breakdowns and pave the way for a smooth, stress-free trip. This pre-road-trip maintenance checklist can help your car run safely and efficiently, whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure.
1. Check Your Tires
Your tires are the only point of contact between your car and the road, making them one of the most important things to inspect before a long drive.
- Check the tire pressure using a gauge and inflate them to the recommended PSI, which can be found in your owner’s manual or inside the driver’s side door.
- Examine the tread depth to ensure you have enough grip, especially if you’ll be driving in rainy or snowy conditions. If the tread is worn down, consider replacing your tires before your trip.
- Inspect for visible damage such as cuts, cracks, or bulges that could lead to a blowout.
- Check your spare tire to make sure it’s properly inflated and ready to use in case of an emergency.
2. Inspect Fluids and Top Off as Needed
Fluids are essential for keeping your car’s engine and systems running smoothly. Before leaving for your trip, check the following:
- Engine oil – Make sure it’s clean and at the right level. If it’s close to your next scheduled oil change, it’s best to get it done before your trip.
- Coolant – Keeps your engine from overheating, especially on long drives in hot weather.
- Brake fluid – Crucial for safe stopping power. If it’s low or dirty, consider having it replaced.
- Transmission fluid – Assists with gear shifting. Dirty or low transmission fluid can cause issues with your transmission, which will cut your road trip short (and can be quite costly).
- Windshield washer fluid – A full reservoir will keep your windshield clean from dirt, bugs, and road grime.
If you’re unsure about checking your fluids or notice any leaks under your car, have a local mechanic inspect it before you leave.
3. Test Your Battery
A dead battery can leave you stranded, so make sure yours is in good condition before heading out. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them if necessary, and make sure the connections are tight and secure. If your battery is more than three years old, consider testing it or having it tested at an auto repair shop to make sure it’s up to par. Car batteries can fail unexpectedly, so carrying jumper cables or a portable jump starter is a smart precaution.
4. Examine Your Brakes
Listen for any squeaking or grinding noises when you brake, which may indicate worn-out brake pads. If your brake pedal feels soft or the car takes longer to stop than usual, have a mechanic inspect your braking system before you leave.
5. Check Your Lights and Wipers
Good visibility is essential for safe driving, especially if you’ll be traveling at night or in bad weather.
- Test headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights to make sure they are working properly.
- Inspect your windshield wipers for cracks or streaking. If they aren’t clearing your windshield effectively, replace them before your trip.
- Make sure your defroster is functioning if you’ll be driving in cold or foggy conditions.
6. Pack an Emergency Kit
Even with proper maintenance, unexpected situations can happen. Packing an emergency kit helps you be prepared for minor car troubles or unexpected delays.
Recommended items include (but are not limited to):
- Jumper cables or a portable jump starter
- Tire repair kit and air compressor
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Basic tools (screwdriver, wrench, duct tape)
- Extra fluids (oil, coolant, windshield washer fluid)
- Blanket and bottled water (especially if traveling in remote areas)
Having these essentials on hand can help you handle minor issues without completely derailing your trip.
7. Plan for Fuel and Rest Stops
Long road trips require planning for fuel and rest stops, especially in more rural or remote areas where gas stations might be sparse. Monitor your fuel levels and avoid waiting until the last minute to get gas. Make sure you also take regular breaks to stretch, hydrate, and stay alert—driving while fatigued can be just as dangerous as driving distracted!
A little planning ahead can be key when it comes to a comfortable and successful road trip. Taking some extra time to inspect your vehicle—or have it inspected by a professional—before hitting the road will give you peace of mind so you can focus on enjoying the adventure ahead.