Road trips are excellent ways to explore new areas. They allow you to travel on your terms, reaching your destination at a pace that works for you. To ensure the safety of all your passengers on the road, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is ready to make the trip. From checking tires to packing any supplies you may need, there’s a lot to consider. Follow this brief guide before embarking on your next journey.

From Tires to Tune-Ups: A Complete Guide to Vehicle Road Trip Prep

What Are Some Things I Should Check Before Leaving?

 Make sure all of your fluids are full and check to verify your wipers are in proper working order. You’ll also want to test out your lights and turn signals to make sure no bulbs are in need of replacement. Check to see when you last replaced your car battery; if you’ve had it more than five years, it may be worth replacing before making a long trip. Inspect your brakes to make sure there is at least 50% of the material left on the pads.

Make sure to assess the tread on your tires by performing the coin test: insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing upside-down. If all of his head is visible, it’s time to have new tires installed. If the tires have ample tread, it’s still important to check their pressure. Consult your owner’s manual for the appropriate pressure levels and make any adjustments as needed. If you find you’re losing pressure consistently, schedule a trip to your local tire center to address the issue.

Should I Schedule Service?

In addition to making sure you have ample tread on your tires before hitting the road, it may also be a good idea to have a tune-up performed. This will ensure you have fresh oil before traveling hundreds of miles. Also, your maintenance specialists will alert you if there are any other issues needing attention, such as brakes, spark plugs, or the timing belt. 

Which Supplies Should I Have On Hand?

No one wants to break down in an unfamiliar area, but being prepared can help you get back on the road quickly in the event of an issue. Equip your travel maintenance kit with jumper cables, extra motor oil, basic hand tools, coolant, water, reflective triangles to alert traffic, and a flashlight. A spare tire and changing kit can also come in handy for addressing flats. 

If there’s a road trip in your future, be sure to make an appointment at Lee Tire in Lexington, KY, prior to your getaway. Their professional team specializes in tire sales and services to keep your vehicle in top condition for long drives. Learn more by visiting their website or call (859) 254-6157 to speak with one of their specialists.