car service before long road trip

Long Trip Preparation Checklist

How do you prepare your car for a long trip in 2023.

As we step into the fall of 2023, the allure of road tripping is still stronger than ever. While the echoes of 2021’s challenges linger, the spirit of exploration has not waned. The appeal of escaping the everyday hustle and finding solace in nature’s embrace is drawing travelers back to the open road. Plane tickets prices feel higher than ever, creating an even greater attraction to road trip. Concerts, sporting events, and festivals are back in full swing now, and the highways are alive with the hum of vehicles and the excitement of those seeking adventure.

Road trips aren’t going away anytime soon and in fact, Apple Maps recently released data of mobility trends showing that people are already requesting routes at the same rate pre COVID-19. But here’s the kicker, they aren’t GPS’ing their way to the city, they’re heading to open roads, the mountains, lakes, beaches, etc. Road trips offer an escape from the monotony of routine, a chance to disconnect from the digital world, and an opportunity to reconnect with nature’s wonders. The destinations are as diverse as the landscapes themselves – from quaint towns with hidden gems to majestic vistas that take your breath away. Along the way, there’s the thrill of stumbling upon roadside attractions, savoring local cuisine, and sharing stories with fellow travelers.

It’s bad enough when you have car trouble in your local neighborhood – or even in your own driveway. However, nothing could put a damper on those travel plans like having your car break down hundreds of miles from home. Vacations are supposed to be a time for fun and relaxation, but the difference between pleasure and misery often lies in whether or not you took the proper steps to get your car ready for that long trip.

As we embrace the roads that stretch ahead, remember that the essence of travel – the joy of discovery, the freedom of the open road – remains unchanged. In a world that continues to evolve, the journey remains a constant. So, buckle up, plan smartly, and venture forth with the assurance that you’re well-equipped to create memories that will stand the test of time.

Before you leave home for your road trip, there are several simple steps you can take to protect your vehicle, your trip and your loves ones.

First, in case anything does go wrong with your vehicle, make sure you give a trip plan to someone trustworthy. Now, you can go to work on that car of yours…

Up to 5 quarts standard oil and standard filter. Combine these coupons to add up your savings… but don’t combine them with any other offers or promotions. Bust present coupon at time of sale.

Holiday Road Trip Special $54.95

Special includes:

• Full-service oil change
• Tire rotation
• Transmission fluid check
• Coolant fluid check
• Brake fluid check
• Power steering fluid check
• Battery fluid check
• Fuel & air intake check
• Belts & hoses check
• Air, field & cabin filters check

Long Road Trip Checklist: You can tackle each of these quickly before you hit the road

• Change oil and filter
• Begin your trip with a clean car, both inside and out. It will help you find your map when you need it, etc.
• Try not to put luggage over the car. It creates air friction and slows you down – bringing more gas. If it is unavoidable, cover with strong sheet and tie them very well.
• Keep a small garbage bag inside the car.
• Change air filter.
• Check cabin air filter because you don’t want a musty odor coming from your vents.
• Cover headlights and front of the car with a protective sheet to prevent bug clogs or other damage.
• Get an extra set of car belts.
• Change spark plugs.
• Make certain your tire iron and jack are in the car.
• Check your spare tire.
• Pack a fire extinguisher.
• Bring towels for cleaning dirty windshields, spills, etc.
• Get a spare key for the car and keep it in your wallet or elsewhere on your person in case you lock your keys in the car.
• Fix sun protectors for side windows and front windshield.
• Make sure you have your podcast downloaded (You may lose service), music library up to date. Or your favorite CD’s if you’re old fashioned.
• Don’t forget any of those necessary cables; Car charger for your phone, auxiliary cable if applicable, USB cables, camera chargers, Go Pro chargers, drone chargers, etc.
• If you’re taking photographs or videos, don’t forget those tiny, yet vitally important memory cards
• Bring a plastic funnel to add water or other fluids. Bring a water bucket in case you need to use a river or lake for emergency coolant.
• Always fill your gas tank when it is half full. Don’t wait too long.
• Make sure your owner’s manual is handy.

Our downloadable long trip preparation checklist can be printed out and stored in your glove box or browsed on your smartphone! Grab a copy to keep with you as a reference to be safe on those long trips.

In addition, you should make a checklist of items to pack in a car survival kit. These can include:

• A chain or thick towing rope
• Electric charger wire
• Screw drivers and wrenches of different sizes
• Bungee cords

Before packing up, make one final check of the following:

• Tires condition.
• Check tires tread and look for signs of strain, bulges, or other damage.
• Tire pressure, don’t over inflate.
• Wipers and wiper fluid. When the rain falls, you don’t want to discover your wipers are useless. In addition, bug hits can really mess a windshield, so you’ll need a full fluid reservoir.
• Flush radiator, if you haven’t done so in a while.
• Fuses and Horn.
• High and low beam headlights.
• Oil, power steering, and brake fluid.
• Loose cables heater and air conditioner, if making a seasonal trip.

Once you’ve ensured your car is in top shape, let’s dive into some easy yet effective driving strategies. Remember, you’re more than just a passenger in your car – your alertness and engagement matter just as much. Here’s a handful of straightforward tips to make the most out of your journey:

1. Stay Engaged: Don’t underestimate the power of conversation. Engaging in conversation with the driver can help keep everyone awake, motivated, and connected during those long stretches.

2. Know Your Limits: Plan your trip around your comfort zone. Whether you’re a 500-mile-a-day champ or prefer a more leisurely pace, tailor your journey to your endurance level. Longer trips may call for more breaks and rest.

3. Take It Easy on Speed: Opt for a steady pace over high speeds. Not only will you save on fuel, but you’ll also have more opportunities to savor scenic routes, mountain views, and winding roads.

4. Rest When Needed: Avoid energy drinks and excessive caffeine. If fatigue sets in, pull over and take a break. A 30-minute nap or checking into a motel can do wonders for your alertness and safety.

5. Beat Boredom: Embrace entertainment for those less scenic stretches. Tune into your favorite podcast, upbeat music, stand-up comedy, or an engaging audiobook to make the time fly by.

6. Mind Truck Etiquette: On the open road, give trucks some space. Tailgating can make truck drivers uneasy and distracted. Stay a safe distance behind and avoid becoming a source of concern for them.

As you set out on your next adventure, keep these simple tips in mind to ensure a smoother and more enjoyable road trip experience. With a well-prepared car and a mindful approach, you’re ready to embrace the open road with renewed enthusiasm.

With proper preparation before a trip, and a good attitude during a journey, you can make sure you not only survive a long trip – but also enjoy it. Bring your car into one of seven locations and have a pre-trip check up performed on your vehicle by one of our ASE master technicians. Here is what you will receive in one of our pre-trip check ups:

• Full service standard oil change and filter (synthetic oil and special oil filters will be extra)
• Transmission fluid inspection
• Coolant fluid inspection
• Brake fluid inspection
• Power steering fluid inspection
• Battery fluid inspection
• Fuel & air intake inspection
• Belts & hoses inspection
• Air, fuel, cabin filters inspection
• 100% Peace of Mind!

13 Locations Throughout NH, ME, & MA:

Manchester, nh.

991 Candia Road | Manchester, NH 03109 (603) 232-1521

Merrimack, NH

738 D.W. Highway | Merrimack, NH 03054 (603) 429-1002

Hooksett, NH

1112 Hooksett Rd | Hooksett, NH 03106 (603) 644-7238

South Portland, ME

509 Westbrook St. | South Portland, ME 04106 (207) 773-8560

Wolfeboro, NH

635 Center St. | Wolfeboro, NH 03894 (603) 569-1068

675 White Mountain Hwy | Conway, NH 03818 (603) 447-3873

418 Island Pond Rd, Bldg #3 | Derry, NH 03038 (603) 845-3900

Lebanon, NH

258 Mechanic St, Lebanon, NH 03766 (603) 448-1381

28 Sumner Dr, Dover, NH 03820 (603) 742-8627

Londoneryy, NH

107 Nashua Rd, Londonderry, NH 03053 (603) 404-5120

Auto Care Corner:

Terms of Service - Privacy Policy - Refund Policy

• Getting Your Car Ready
• Preparing for the Weather
• 8 Helpful Apps for a Road Trip
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Taking a Road Trip With Kids
• Planning a Solo Road Trip
• How to Plan a Camping Road Trip
• Planning a Stargazing Road Trip
• 10 Helpful Budget Tips
• Calculating the Cost of Gas
• Budget for a 3-Day Road Trip
• Best Road Trip Route By Interest
• Mississippi River Road Trip
• Atlantic Coast Road Trip
• Southern US Road Trip
• Northern US Road Trip
• Pacific Coast Road Trip
• US Route 12
• Northeastern US Routes
• Rocky Mountain Destinations
• Warm-Weather Road Trip
• The Longest Highway in the US
• Car Rental Companies
• Best Audio Books
• Must-Have Emergency Supplies
• Family Road Trip Toys and Games
• Car Bike Racks
• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Inspiration

8 Things You Need to Do to Get Your Car Road-Trip Ready

Time off work? Check. Accommodations booked? Check. Itinerary planned? Check. Bags packed? Check. Auto maintenance complete? Uh oh.

If you can’t remember the last time your vehicle had a date with a mechanic, then you aren’t quite ready to embark on that epic road trip you’ve been dreaming about.

"Long road trips can test your vehicle's strength and not every part in a vehicle gives you fair warning," says Lauren Fix, an ASE-certified technician, race car driver, and award-winning author of three automotive books. "When going on a road trip, it's important to have your vehicle's brakes, tires, and fluids checked, along with any moving or rubber parts that can fail and leave you stranded on the side of the road."

The following items should be checked at least every six months (or sooner, depending on the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule)—spring and fall, before the weather changes—and also before heading out of town:

No, it's not just a ploy to get you into a repair shop—oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. "If your vehicle is due for an oil change or close, have that service completed before you hit the road, especially if your vehicle is not normally driven at highway speeds," says Kevin Fawthorp, a master certified technician with Community Tire Pros and Auto Repair in Arizona and part of the Network of Neighborhood Auto Repair Professionals (NARPRO). "Today's engines and oils are better than ever; however, timely oil changes are very important."

Once inside your vehicle, tires often become an “out-of-sight, out-of-mind” automobile component. But their condition is essential to your vehicle’s safety, fuel efficiency, performance, and traction. Fix says to check the pressure of all tires, including your spare once a month—either by using a digital tire pressure gauge and comparing the results to the information on the decal inside your driver’s side door or by popping into a shop that will take care of this service free of charge. Next, take a look at the tread depth to see if your tires are damaged or worn unevenly. “When tires are worn unevenly or damaged, don’t wait to replace them,” says Fix. Finally, make sure you’re having your tires rotated per the owner’s manual recommendations, which often takes place during an oil change.

Often, brakes will give the driver some warning signs of upcoming issues. “Most disc brake pads have a squeal sensor mounted on the pad and when you are nearing the end of useful pad life will start to squeal to let the driver know before other parts—such as rotors or calipers—become damaged, causing a relatively inexpensive repair to become quite expensive,” says Fawthorp. “You cannot mistake this squeal.” Also, pay attention to other warnings, such as a sudden “spongy” pedal, pulling one direction or the other when brakes are applied, or a brake pedal that either shakes or moves up and down slightly while you are braking.

Windshield Washer Fluid and Wiper Blades

This one’s usually easy enough to do yourself: Refill the fluid in the windshield washer reservoir and replace wiper blades that are torn, cracked, or don’t properly clean your windshield. “Eighty percent of driving decisions are based on vision, so clear, unobstructed sight is critical,” says Fix, who suggests replacing your traditional blades with “beam” blades, which are curved to hug the windshield better.

Battery life spans differ depending on your climate and driving habits—for instance, the average lasts from three to five years. Still, Fawthorp says a battery in the Arizona heat has an average life span of only 30 months. When starting your car, he suggests listening for sounds indicating the battery may be losing some of its power, takes longer to start, or has a slight hesitancy on the first start of the day. Most service shops have equipment that can test your battery for condition, which should prevent you from experiencing a battery failure on the road.

Interior and Exterior Light Bulbs

With the help of a family member or neighbor, complete an exterior lighting check. “Don’t chance getting a warning or repair order from the police, or having someone rear-end you because your brake lights or turn signals weren’t working,” says Fawthorp. Some bulbs are easy to replace yourself, while others may require the assistance of a pro. Also, take a moment to double-check all interior lights to ensure you’ll have lighting inside your vehicle when you need it.

Cabin Air Filter

This little filter is responsible for trapping contaminants from the outside air and ensuring your air conditioner airflow will not be challenged on the road—but not if it’s old and dirty. Signs include a musty smell when turning on your air conditioning, poor airflow, and air not blowing as cold as usual. Ask about the condition of your cabin air filter during your next oil change.

Inspect for Leaks, Smells and Noises

“If you see a leak under your car, this is the sign of a problem,” says Fix. “Take a picture of the leak to show the repair shop, as it will help them diagnose the issue. Use your senses. What does it smell like? What does it look like? Do you hear any unusual sounds? This information will help, as well.”

Fawthrop recommends bringing your vehicle in two weeks before your trip—if extensive repairs are necessary, this will not only ensure there’s plenty of time to complete them, but it will also allow you a few extra days afterward to drive around your neighborhood just to make sure everything is working well.

“Your automobile is a very complex piece of machinery, with a lot of things that must work together to get you where you want to go on time and safely,” says Fawthrop. “Have a professional put his or her eyes on the vehicle before you jump on the highway and find yourself stranded in unfamiliar territory while trying to find help and a quality repair professional.”

Related Articles

More related articles.

CarParts.com will be back soon!

We apologize for the inconvenience. The CP Team is working on some upgrades to improve our service. Thank you for using CarParts.com!

You can call us at

1-866-529-0412

Reference ID: 18.7fc733e.1725509449.7590190

SCHEDULE SERVICE

West: 719-598-6306, east: 719-638-1800, honest guide to car maintenance before a road trip.

• May 3, 2021
• by R Stratton

Blog // Honest Guide to Car Maintenance Before a Road Trip

5 Step Car Maintenance Checklist: Preparing to Get Your Car Road Trip Ready

Scheduling car maintenance before a road trip is an essential step to get your vehicle road trip ready. Nothing can put a wrench in your travel plans like being stranded on the side of the road with car problems, such as a flat tire and no emergency kit!

This is the five-step checklist from Honest Accurate Auto Service to road trip preparation for your car. Stay ahead of the curve and keep your family safe from mechanical breakdowns by checking these 5 steps off your list before heading out on the open road.

Step One: Oil Change and Complimentary Inspection

Before heading out to explore the open road, it is important to get an oil change with a bumper-to-bumper maintenance check. 

Oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. Fresh oil helps to clean moving parts of an engine while dissipating heat to prevent a mechanical breakdown. Your vehicle depends on having the proper level and quality of oil in order to run properly. 

If your vehicle is due for an oil change, or if it will be time for an oil change during your trip, it is worth the time and money to get the oil changed before you head out the driveway. All of the following steps will be checked and adjusted by your Honest Technician during your oil change service. 

At Honest Accurate Auto Service, your oil change includes a comprehensive visual inspection by an ASE certified technician. Since the vehicle is going on a long trip, the car inspection includes critical components like brake pads , suspension, tires, valve stems, turn signals, master cylinders, fluid levels, and more.

Step Two: Top off Vehicle Fluids

Check the level of all the fluids in your car. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the coolant, windshield washer fluid, engine oil, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transaxle, and differential oils should be inspected and topped off in order to get your vehicle road trip ready.

No matter what type of brake fluid your vehicle takes, it is a top priority to check the level and condition of the fluid. Brake fluid operates in a sealed hydraulic system to keep it free from moisture and contaminants. This impacts how each component of your brake system works, all the way from the brake pedal to the brake pads.

Another critical fluid to inspect is your vehicle’s engine coolant, which is sometimes referred to as antifreeze. Look at the coolant reservoir to ensure the fluid is filled to the car manufacturer’s recommended level. Even if the coolant level is fine, inspect the fluid to make sure nothing is floating around the reservoir indicating the coolant is very old. Lastly, check for any corrosion on the tank, as the Coolant can become acidic over time. 

Windshield washer fluid, which works with the wiper blades to clean the windshield, is one of the fluids you should routinely check while stopping for gas. Periodically inspecting oil and coolant levels is also advised while traveling long distances.

At Honest Accurate Auto Service, all your vehicle’s fluids will be inspected and topped off as needed during our oil change service . 

Step Three: Air Conditioner Check

Nothing will make you or your passengers more irritable than an air conditioning system quitting when temperatures (and tempers) are rising. Before leaving on a trip, check your AC unit to make sure the system is working properly. 

Ask the following questions to determine if you should have an air conditioner inspection or repair: 

• Is the air blowing as cold or as strong as it should be?
• Are there any refrigerant leaks coming from the hoses, compressor, or Schrader valve that could drain the refrigerant?

If the answer to these questions is yes, consider calling Honest Accurate Auto Service for air conditioning repair or service. 

Advice from Accurate Andy: Another important part to check is the air filter, especially if traveling with a furry friend! Pet dander can easily block up air filters in a vehicle, so be sure to regularly check them while on the road.

Step Four: Inspect Tires

Tires are a critical asset in making it to your destination safely. A road trip-ready car should be equipped with great tires to handle the different bumps, terrains, and weather conditions out on the open road.

Remember to check your tire pressure and tire treads as part of your long trip car service! The proper inflation for tires can be found in two places: on the inside of the driver’s door jamb and in your owner’s manual. 

Proper air pressure, measured in pounds per square inch (PSI), is critical for even wear patterns on tires. Overinflated or underinflated tires are a safety hazard when driving, especially on long trips in bad weather. Be sure to keep a tire pressure gauge in your vehicle so you can routinely check each tire’s PSI while fueling up.

Honest Technicians always adjust the pressure in your tires according to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. 

Even if your brakes are in good working order, your tires can be like a snow sled when they do not have adequate tread to grip the road. When the tread depth is below 2/32nd, cornering and stopping will be compromised, especially on wet roads. 

If you don’t have your tires inflated or tread depth checked before a road trip, your vehicle will be more susceptible to hydroplaning .

Honest Abe Tip: 

A quick way to measure the depth of your tires is by using a penny.  Just follow these easy steps!

Place the penny into the trough of the tread with Lincoln’s head facing into the tire. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, you have very little tread (less than 2/32nd) left on the tires. 

When you have uneven tire wear the tires may need to be balanced or the wheels aligned. In addition, the suspension may need an inspection.    

Step Five: The Road Trip Toolkit

Even small things can break, so having a few options can make your trip run smoother and keep you on the road. Be prepared and have a tool kit in your car for minor repairs.  

Make sure you stock your vehicle with the following essentials:

• Jumper cables 
• Wheel lock key
• Spare tire tool kit
• Cell phone and charger
• Emergency blankets
• Work gloves

When on the road, it is not important to stop and rest the vehicle unless the engine is overheating. Overheating is most likely to occur in warmer weather.

Contact Honest Accurate Auto Service to schedule Car Maintenance Before a Road Trip 

Have peace of mind by being proactive before you head out on your road trip, no matter the length. Let Honest Accurate Auto Service help you cover all your bases before you hit the road. We hope you enjoyed our blog about Car Maintenance Before a Road Trip and wish you safe travels along the open road!

East Location on Tutt Boulevard in Colorado Springs

Call 719-638-1800 to call the store for a service appointment.

West Location on Nevada Mesa View in Colorado Springs

Call 719-598-6306 to schedule an appointment for service.

Share this post

What is a Bumper to Bumper Vehicle Safety Inspection?

June 17, 2024.

Dad Car Jokes

January 8, 2024.

Fall Things to Do in Colorado Springs

September 18, 2023, subscribe for tips and specials.

WEST LOCATION 426 Nevada Mesa View Colorado Springs, CO 80907 VIEW MAP

Phone: 719-598-6306 [email protected]

EAST LOCATION 3905 Tutt Boulevard Colorado Springs, CO 80922 VIEW MAP

Phone: 719-638-1800 [email protected]

©Copyright 2014-2024 Honest Accurate Auto Service | Privacy Policy | Sitemap

REQUEST APPOINTMENT

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• Happiness Hub
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Cars & Other Vehicles
• Car Maintenance and Repair

The Ultimate Car Maintenance Checklist For Road Trips

Last Updated: May 19, 2024 Approved

Inspecting Your Vehicle

• Addressing Issues

Preparing to Depart

Expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Tom Eisenberg . Tom Eisenberg is the Owner and General Manager of West Coast Tires & Service in Los Angeles, California, a family-owned AAA-approved and certified auto shop. Tom has over 10 years of experience in the auto industry. Modern Tire Dealer Magazine voted his shop one of the Best 10 Operations in the Country. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 15 testimonials and 100% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 483,541 times.

Planning on going on a road trip soon? Before you do so, you should check your car to make sure that it is in good condition and running well. If you spend a little time preparing your vehicle for the trip beforehand, you can avoid most problems that might ruin your fun along the way.

Quick Steps

• Check that your tires are inflated and the treads are deep enough for long travel.
• Inspect your exterior lights, horn, and windshield wiper blades.
• Make sure your air filter isn’t clogged and that the AC and heat are working.
• Look at the belts in the engine for signs of cracking or glazing (shiny spots).
• Top off your oil, transmission fluid, and other fluids that are running low.
• Check and replace the brake pads if necessary.
• Prepare and pack a roadside emergency kit before you leave.

Blown-out lights can be hazardous as other drivers around you won't be able to know what you intend to do while driving, such as take a turn or put on the brakes. Also, a broken light can get you pulled over, which may leave you with an expensive ticket to pay.

• Place the penny upside down in the groove of the tire and see how much of Lincoln’s head you can see. If you can see further down Lincoln’s head than his forehead, the tires need to be replaced.

• Most air boxes are held shut with clips. Remove them to open the box and look at the air filter.
• The filter should be free of debris and usually white. If it looks particularly dirty, replace it before closing the airbox up again.

Addressing Issues that May Arise

• Plug the scanner into the open plastic connector port beneath the dashboard on the driver’s side.
• If the scanner doesn’t provide an English description with the error code, you can find the corresponding description in a vehicle-specific repair manual or often on the manufacturer’s website.

• Oil that’s in good condition will be translucent and slightly yellow or even greenish in color.
• To change the oil, slide a container under the oil pan that can capture the draining oil, then unscrew the drain plug (bolt at the bottom of the oil pan). Once the oil has drained completely, replace the plug and remove the oil filter. Install a new oil filter and then add the correct type and amount of oil for your vehicle, based on the information in your owner's manual.

• Automatic transmission fluid is one of the most important ones to check before a long road trip. Use your vehicle’s owner’s manual to tell you where to find the dipstick, then check it like you would engine oil.
• Make sure your radiator is topped off as well by comparing its fill line to the lower limit line visible on the reservoir.

Try to avoid packing things over your spare tire or emergency kit if you can. Setting off with a clean and organized car can give you added peace of mind.

• Driving without the appropriate documentation can lead to fines or even having your car impounded.
• Keep those important documents somewhere you can easily access in case you get pulled over.

• It’s also a good idea to carry a first aid kit .
• You may want to tailor some emergency supplies to your family or time of year. For instance, you may want to carry cat litter to help on slippery roads during the winter.

• You can get most commercial oil change facilities to do all of this for you at a (semi) reasonable cost. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• If you are driving into remote areas ALWAYS ensure you have plenty of fuel in your tank, plenty of bottled drinking water, and ensure that someone knows how long you expect to be gone. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ Tom Eisenberg. Auto Technician. Expert Interview. 26 July 2019.
• ↑ https://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/a26200/car-road-trip/
• ↑ https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/how-to-prep-your-car-for-a-road-trip/
• ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/changing-a-car-serpentine-belt/
• ↑ https://www.dmv.org/how-to-guides/pre-trip-maintenance.php
• ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/automotive/car-brakes/how-to-change-front-brake-pads/view-all/
• ↑ https://www.carproof.com/resource-centre/articles/preparing-your-vehicle-for-a-road-trip
• ↑ https://www.dmv.org/how-to-guides/emergency-kit.php

About This Article

To check your car before a road trip, start by looking over the car inside and out for any noticeable issues, like burnt out headlights, or worn windshield wipers. Make sure your tires are inflated to the pressure specified in the owner's manual, and check the tread on your tires using the penny test. Open the hood and turn on the car to make sure the serpentine and accessory belts are conditioned and tense. Before you hit the road, resolve any warning lights that appear on your dashboard to avoid issues during your trip. For tips on addressing problems as they arise and getting ready to leave, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Dulce Ramon

Jul 14, 2017

Did this article help you?

Jun 8, 2017

Divya Prasher

Mar 4, 2017

May 19, 2018

Jul 17, 2018

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter