Maintenance
The official summer road-trip safety checklist
Check your tires, fluids, emergency kit, and passenger safety before a summer trip. This guide follows NHTSA advice.
Photo by Shixart1985 · CC BY 2.0
Check the vehicle before you leave
- Look up open recalls with the license plate or VIN.
- Check tire pressure, tread, sidewalls, and the spare tire when the tires are cold.
- Inspect coolant, oil when applicable, brake fluid, washer fluid, and other fluids listed in the owner's manual.
- Test the battery, headlights, brake lights, turn signals, hazard lights, and wipers.
- Inspect belts and hoses for cracks, bulges, cuts, or leaks.
Pack a useful emergency kit
NHTSA recommends a phone and charger, first-aid supplies, a flashlight, jumper cables, a tire gauge, basic tools, water, food, medicine, and weather-ready clothing or blankets. Add items that fit your route, passengers, and climate.
Plan the drive
Check weather, road conditions, traffic, and charging or fuel stops before you leave. Share your route and expected arrival time. Build in enough time so you do not feel pressure to speed or drive while tired.
Protect every passenger
Everyone should buckle up on every trip. Children need the correct car seat or booster for their age and size, and children under 13 should ride in the back seat. Never leave a child alone in a parked car, even on a mild day.
Primary references
Official sources
MyFavi links to the original agency material so you can verify the details and check for updates.