Road Trip Car Checklist
Ensure a safe and stress-free journey with our comprehensive Road Trip Car Checklist. Covers tires, fluids, brakes, and emergency gear for any long-distance drive.
Overview
Summary and key details for this checklist.
Preparing your vehicle for a road trip is about more than just filling the gas tank. A thorough inspection helps prevent overheating, tire blowouts, and electrical failures that often occur under the stress of sustained high-speed driving and varying weather conditions.
A basic DIY inspection typically takes 45 to 90 minutes. If you prefer a professional multi-point inspection at a shop, expect it to take 1 to 2 hours depending on their current workload. Performing these checks at least one week before your departure allows time for any necessary repairs.
Printable Checklist
A clean, scannable checklist view. (You can export/print from the sidebar.)
| Item | Priority | Who | Time | What to check (Pass/Fail) | If failed (Next step) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Pressure (Cold) | Required | DIY | 5 min | Matches door-jamb PSI | Inflate to spec |
| Tire Tread Depth | Required | DIY | 5 min | At least 4/32" depth | Replace tires |
| Engine Oil Level | Required | DIY | 5 min | Between Min/Max marks | Top off or change |
| Coolant/Antifreeze | Required | DIY | 5 min | Level at 'Full' line | Add premixed coolant |
| Brake Pad Thickness | Required | Shop | 20 min | >3mm friction material | Replace pads |
| Battery Terminals | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | No corrosion or looseness | Clean and tighten |
| Wiper Blades | Required | DIY | 5 min | No streaks or tears | Replace blades |
| Washer Fluid | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | Reservoir is full | Refill fluid |
| Spare Tire Condition | Required | DIY | 5 min | Inflated and no dry rot | Inflate or replace |
| Headlights/High Beams | Required | DIY | 3 min | Both sides functional | Replace bulbs |
| Brake Lights | Required | DIY | 2 min | All bulbs illuminate | Replace bulbs |
| Turn Signals | Required | DIY | 2 min | Proper blink rate | Check bulbs/fuses |
| Serpentine Belt | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | No cracks or fraying | Replace belt |
| Air Filter | Optional | DIY | 5 min | Clean, no debris | Replace filter |
| Brake Pedal Feel | Required | DIY | 2 min | Firm, not spongy | Bleed or repair system |
| AC Performance | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Blows cold air quickly | Check refrigerant |
| Jack & Lug Wrench | Required | DIY | 2 min | Present and functional | Purchase replacements |
| Emergency Kit | Required | DIY | 10 min | Complete and unexpired | Restock supplies |
Use this table as your primary guide during the walk-around. Mark each item as you go to ensure nothing is missed. If any 'Required' item fails, prioritize that repair before leaving your driveway.
For items marked as 'Shop', consider scheduling a quick inspection if you are not comfortable lifting the vehicle or removing wheels. A professional can often spot subtle signs of wear that a novice might overlook.
Notes
Extra context, cautions, and helpful tips.
Once you have completed the checklist, keep a record of your findings to track your vehicle's health over time.
- Keep a physical copy of this checklist in your glovebox.
- Dispose of old oil or coolant at an authorized recycling center.
- Reset your trip odometer at the start of the journey to track fuel economy.
- Take note of any new noises during the first 50 miles of your trip.
- Ensure your roadside assistance membership is active and the number is saved in your phone.
- Check your insurance card and registration expiration dates.
- Clean the inside of your windshield to reduce night-time glare.
- Pack a physical map in case you lose GPS signal in remote areas.
- Browse similar Inspection guides for more detailed system checks.
- Check out our Beginner Friendly guides for simple DIY maintenance.
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FAQ
Common questions about this checklist.
Start from the complete car maintenance checklist, then narrow down by mileage, interval, and season.