How to Get Your Vehicle Ready for a Road Trip

Memorial Day weekend is almost here, and camping season has officially begun. After months of being cooped up in our homes, now is the perfect time to jump in the car and go on a road trip you’ll never forget. But to make sure it all goes off without a hitch, take a look at our checklist so you’re fully prepared for everything your adventure brings.

1. Check Tires and Tire Pressure

Inspect all four tires and, if you have one, the spare tire as well. Look for cuts, gouges or sidewall bulges. Insert a penny upside down into grooves to check tire tread. If you see the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head, it is time for new tires.

Check tire pressure when the car has been idle and tires are cool. Inflate as needed to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure. You will find it listed in the owner’s manual and on the sticker of the driver side door jamb. Do not use the number on the tire sidewall.

2. Test and Listen to Your Brakes

If you hear a grinding sound or feel a vibration when applying the brakes, take your vehicle to an auto repair shop for a brake inspection. A service professional will check the brake system for fluid leaks, and the pads, rotors, shoes and drums. If repair or replacement is needed, you can schedule an appointment with Taylor’s Auto Max’s Service Department here.

3. Check the Battery

Check your car’s battery to be sure the connection is tight and corrosion-free. If there is corrosion, you’ll need to disconnect the battery and clean the connectors with a wire brush. Batteries contain corrosive acid that may leak if battery connectors are forced off, so if you’re not familiar with how to check and clean a car battery, it may be best to leave it to a professional. As a general rule of thumb, you should have your vehicle’s battery checked annually after it’s more than two years old.

4. Top Off Engine Oil and Other Fluids

Check the levels of your car’s many fluids, including engine oil, power steering and transmission fluids and windshield washer fluid. If any of them are low, top them off before hitting the road. If your car is close to needing its next oil change, it may be worth having it done before your trip.

You should also check your vehicle’s engine coolant (also known as antifreeze) tank to confirm it’s filled to the car manufacturer’s recommended level. However, keep in mind that even if it’s filled to the proper level, you may still need to have the coolant changed out if there are floating particles in it or if the fluid is clear. 

Coolant can also become acidic over time, so you may want to have your coolant tank checked for any corrosion. This could cause damage to other parts of the vehicle, such as the radiator or hoses.

5. Check Belts and Hoses

Engine belts and hoses are critical when it comes to keeping your car’s electrical, power steering and cooling systems functioning properly. Have them inspected to determine if any are frayed or cracked. Belts should also be tightly installed, so be sure to verify that they’re secure and don’t have a large amount of slack. Lastly, be sure to have your hoses checked for any leaks or drips.

Don’t forget to check your owner’s manual for recommended belt and hose service intervals, as some cars may require replacements in as little as 60,000 miles.

6. Check Air Filters

Most vehicles have two types of air filters. The engine air filter provides debris-free air to the engine, and the cabin air filter filters the incoming air to the passenger compartment. For the vehicle to perform as intended and for the people inside it to breathe freely, the vehicle’s air filters need to be replaced regularly. The engine air filter and cabin filters should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Barring that, every 10,000 to 15,000 miles is a good rule of thumb.

7. Replace Wiper Blades and Replenish Windshield Cleaner

Rubber wiper blades naturally deteriorate over time. If wipers streak or fail to clear the windshield thoroughly, replace the blades. Fill the windshield washer reservoir with fluid formulated to remove insects and other debris, and test to make sure the nozzles spray adequately.

8. Verify Lights and Electrical Equipment are Working

A vehicle’s headlights are an obvious source of light, but there are multiple bulbs inside the cabin that may occasionally need checking and replacement. There is nothing more irritating than trying to use an interior light after dark, only to find out that it has burned out. These are generally easy to replace, and most auto parts stores carry a wide variety of replacements saving you trip to the dealer.

9. Test the Air Conditioner

Take a test drive with the air conditioner running. If you notice a decrease in cooling capacity, take the car to an auto repair shop for diagnosis. Also have the cabin filter inspected and replaced as needed.

10. Clean and Replenish Emergency Supplies

Driving a clean vehicle doesn’t just make for a more pleasant experience behind the wheel; it can add up to a fuel economy penalty if there is enough added weight. In addition to a full vacuum and exterior wash, make sure to remove all the excess baggage—athletic equipment, laundry and the rest of the daily detritus—to remove any extra weight. As a side bonus, it will clear room for luggage and other items required for the road trip. Plus, the psychological benefits of hitting the road in a clean, well-organized machine will make the trip even better.

It’s also recommended that you keep a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle. Include a flashlight and extra fresh batteries, first-aid supplies, drinking water, non-perishable snacks for people and pets, car battery booster cables, emergency flares or reflectors, a rain poncho, a basic tool kit, duct tape, gloves and shop rags or paper towels.

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