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Road Trip Ready: Your Vehicle Checklist

Roberta Willson • Jun 07, 2023

It might not always feel like summer in New England but it’s right around the corner. As summer arrives, road trips may be in your future. Road trips can be fun and adventurous but having any car issues could certainly put a damper on your road trip. Let’s discuss how to get your vehicle “road-trip ready” so you can focus on the fun and adventure and not any mishaps with your vehicle! 

1. Fluids

Car fluids are where everything in your vehicle begins. As you prepare for a road trip, make sure you check the following fluids or have your mechanic look them over.

  • Oil - Your vehicle’s oil should be changed every 3,000- 5,000 miles. 
  • Brake Fluid - If you do not know the last time this was done, it might be time. The fluid should be flushed and changed every 24,000 miles.
  • Radiator Fluid - If you find your vehicle overheating, it may be the coolant or radiator fluid that needs to be changed.
  • Transmission Fluid - Some vehicles claim to be sold with “lifetime” transmission fluid but please check your owners manual and take a look before heading out on a road trip. 
  • Power Steering Fluid - It is recommended to change out this fluid every 50,000 miles and is a good idea to check while checking your car's oil. 
  • Windshield Washer Fluid - While on a road trip, you may encounter all kinds of bugs and weather, and although you can pick up some fluid at most gas stations, this is always a good idea to check and fill before your road trip begins. 

2. Tires

Your tires are obviously a very important part of any road trip. You do not want to waste any time pulled off the side of the road or at a gas station maintaining your tires. Before you begin your trip check your tire air pressure; every tire will indicate the amount of air pressure needed to maximize your tire lifespan and ensure you are not over or under-inflated. It is also a great idea to have your tires rotated before a road trip. You can have them rotate your tires while someone might be changing out your oil and other fluids. They will also check the tread on your tires and let you know if they need to be replaced. 

3. General Maintenance 

From your car battery to your light bulbs, you will want to check it all before a road trip. Here is a basic general maintenance checklist for you to walk through before embarking out on your upcoming road trip.


  • Car Battery
  • Air Filters
  • Brake Pads
  • Light Bulbs
  • Belts 
  • Hoses


4. Finally, have fun!

Now you are all ready to go! While on your trip you will want to have plenty of great car games, music and podcasts all lined up for maximum road trip fun! We recommend the license plate game, 20 questions, a good audio book, several music playlists and podcast options just to name a few!


As always, if you need any used auto parts before or after your road trips, R. H. Willson is here to help. Give us a call or stop by today!

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