What should I check before a road trip?
A week or so before a long trip, check tire pressure and tread (including the spare), brake condition, oil and coolant levels, the battery, wipers and lights, and make sure any due maintenance is done. If you're heading to Tahoe or the Sierra in winter, carry chains even with all-wheel drive, since chain controls can require them. A pre-trip inspection catches the small things that cause breakdowns far from home.
The checklist
Tires - Pressure set to the door-jamb spec, cold, including the spare - Tread depth: at least 4/32" for wet roads, more for snow - No bulges, cuts or nails
Brakes - No squeal, grinding or pulsing - Pads with plenty of life for mountain descents - Brake fluid within its interval
Fluids - Oil level and change interval - Coolant level (check cold) - Washer fluid topped up
Electrical - Battery age and condition (a test takes minutes) - Headlights, brake lights, turn signals - Wipers that clear cleanly
Maintenance - Anything due soon, done before you leave
Mountain driving tips
- Downhill, use a lower gear rather than riding the brakes. Long descents overheat brakes.
- Uphill in heat, watch the temperature gauge. If it climbs, turn off the A/C.
- In winter, check Caltrans road conditions and carry chains.
We're happy to do a pre-trip check. One family stopped by after a tire pressure warning on the highway; we checked the tires and made sure they were safe to continue their trip.
From drivers who came to us
He checked my car tire pressure after a warning light went off on the highway. He patiently answered a bunch of our questions and ensured we'd be safe to get back on the highway for our family trip.
I called to have the tires of my Jeep replaced and Dylan accommodated me the same day… tires were done in a shorter amount of time than expected!
Excerpts from verified customer reviews on Yelp.
More questions
Do I need chains with all-wheel drive in the Sierra?
Caltrans advises carrying chains in the mountains in winter. Under R1 and R2 chain controls, many 4WD and AWD vehicles with snow-rated tires on all four wheels may proceed, but under R3 all vehicles need chains. Check Caltrans conditions before you go.
How soon before a trip should I get the car checked?
About a week ahead, so there's time to order parts or schedule a repair if something turns up.
What should I keep in the car for a long trip?
A charged phone and cable, water, a flashlight, a tire gauge, jumper cables or a jump pack, a basic first-aid kit, and a warm layer. Chains and a blanket in winter.