Safety
Road trip car checklist
A 20-minute check before a long trip can prevent the most common roadside breakdowns.
📅 Aug 17, 2026
✔ Free guide
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Under the hood
- Oil level (top up if needed)
- Coolant level (cold)
- Brake fluid level
- Washer fluid topped
- Battery terminals clean and tight
Around the car
- Tire pressures (cold) including the spare
- Tread depth and any damage
- All lights and indicators
- Wipers work, blades not cracked
- Wheels and lug nuts tight
In the cabin
- Documents: license, insurance, registration
- Phone charger and mount
- First-aid kit, triangle, vest
- Water and snacks
- Music or podcasts downloaded (you may lose signal)
Questions about this guide
If a service is due soon, do it before the trip. Otherwise the 20-minute checklist above is usually enough for a healthy car.