How to Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip

posted by Stacie on April 29, 2023 // 42 Comments »

Maximize Space: Smart Packing Strategies for Your Road Trip

Getting your car ready for a road trip isn't a huge ordeal, but it does require some attention. Let's be honest, our cars take a beating throughout the year, but summer seems especially tough with all those road trips. This year, we're hitting the road for a whopping six weeks – half the summer! When it comes to car care, I confess I'm a bit reactive. Filling up the gas tank (unless my husband beats me to it) is about the extent of my routine maintenance. The “change oil” light usually prompts my only car-related action. This “How to Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip” post aims to inspire even us reactive car owners to be proactive for a smooth and safe summer adventure.

This year, I decided to be proactive and get both of our cars ready for the summer. First, my car needed new tires so we had four (4) Cooper Tires put on a few weeks ago. Did you know that choosing a great tire matters? Did you know that your tires should be checked at least once a month? Checking your tires for proper maintenance and safety is a simple, do-it-yourself routine that will get you road-ready. As the only part of your vehicle connecting it to the road, checking them monthly and before road trips is recommended. Here are our 5 Ways to Prepare Your Car for Summer Travel.

Stay Organized : Prepare Your Car for a Road Trip

Schedule a Check-up. Get the oil changed.

If your car is due for any routine maintenance, get it serviced before your trip. This could include an oil change, tire rotation, or other recommended services as per your car's manual. Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid levels. Top them off or get them changed if necessary, especially if your car is due for an oil change. Consider replacing the air filter for better engine performance. Make certain that in addition to the oil change, all of your regular maintenance is done as well (I.e. refill the windshield wiper fluid, water in the car, etc.)

Clean and organize the inside.

Several times a year, I tackle the task of decluttering my car to make space for luggage and improve gas mileage. The biggest cleaning frenzy happens right before summer break and our annual road trip. It's always surprising how much school paraphernalia accumulates in the backseat! Lost library books, clothes that mysteriously vanished from home – you name it, I've found it. This cleaning session isn't just about creating space; it's also a chance to reorganize everything and check essential supplies like the first-aid kit, DVDs (for those long drives!), mints, and emergency equipment. A clean and organized car makes the journey so much more comfortable for everyone.

Wiper Blades

Check wiper blades for cracks, tears, worn edges or worn-out rubber that could hinder visibility. If they're not clearing the windshield effectively, replace them for better visibility.

Check your tread with a US Penny.

Inspect all tires, including the spare, for proper inflation, wear and tear, and any embedded objects. Consult your car's manual for the recommended tire pressure. Uneven or low tire pressure can affect handling and fuel efficiency.

Did you know that proper tread depth helps tires maintain traction and improves handling? When using the penny, know that the tread on your tires should be more than 2/32 of an inch deep. The way you can check is if the top of Lincoln's head is covered by tread, there is at least a minimum acceptable amount of tread. If the top of his head is visible at any point, it is time to replace the tire.

Learn how to check the air pressure in your tires and check it regularly.

Did you know that underinflation of your tires can lead to tire failure, irregular tread wear, and increased vehicle fuel consumption? Checking tire pressure regularly can save you money in the long run. Tire pressure can also change due to the weather so checking pressure when the seasons change is very important. Tire pressure plays a crucial role in the handling of your vehicle.

Tire pressure is also not something that can be visibly assessed and it is important to note that the proper pressure is not on the sidewall of your tire, but rather in your owner's manual or on your car doorjamb. Under-inflated tires can reduce the life of your tires by 9,000 miles and can increase your fuel consumption by 4%. Protect those valve caps as well as they not only keep dirt and moisture out, they also hold air in your tires so make certain that every tire has a cap.

Lights and Electrics.

Turn on all headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and interior lights to ensure they function properly. Replace any burned-out bulbs. Check the horn and windshield wipers for proper operation. Consider replacing worn-out wiper blades for optimal visibility, especially if rain is expected during your trip.

Pack an Emergency Kit

Assemble a kit containing essentials like jumper cables, a flashlight, flares or reflectors, a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and basic tools. Consider adding bottled water, non-perishable snacks, and a blanket for unexpected situations.

Test Drive

Take your car for a short drive to check if everything feels normal, especially the brakes and steering. Pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations.

Get Tire Smart with Cooper Tires.

It's time to get smart with Cooper Tires because they are the best choice for a quality tire at a great price – and from a company you can trust. Tires are so important in any month because we spend so much time on the road. With three kids, two dogs, and two adults, I need to make certain that all of the precious cargo in the car is well taken care of and I can do this by caring for my car.

Getting the car ready for a road trip?

Did you know that only 17% of drivers are considered “tire smart?” At Cooper Tires, they talk tires every day and they want everyone to know how much your tires truly matter. From tread compound to sidewall design from carcass construction to performance metrics and fitments, tires play a crucial role in your car's safety on the road and overall vehicle performance. The Cooper Tires experts offer more than a century of experience in designing and manufacturing tires.