What do I need before holiday travel?

Prepping Your Car for Holiday Travel: A Checklist


The holiday season is a time for joy, family, and travel. Whether you're embarking on a road trip or a short drive to visit loved ones, ensuring your car is ready for the journey is crucial. Here's a checklist to help you prepare your vehicle for a safe and stress-free holiday trip:


Pre-Trip Inspection

Tire Check:

  • Tread Depth: Ensure your tires have adequate tread depth for optimal grip, especially in wet or snowy conditions.
  • Tire Pressure: Check and adjust tire pressure to the manufacturer's recommended levels.
  • Tire Rotation: Consider rotating your tires to promote even wear.

Fluid Levels:

  • Engine Oil: Check and top off your engine oil if necessary.
  • Coolant: Ensure the coolant level is correct.
  • Brake Fluid: Inspect the brake fluid level and quality.
  • Windshield Washer Fluid: Top off the washer fluid to keep your windshield clear.

Battery Health:

  • Battery Test: Have your battery tested to ensure it can handle the demands of a long trip.

Lights and Signals:

  • Headlights, Taillights, Brake Lights, Turn Signals: Verify that all lights are functioning

Wiper Blades:

  • Blade Condition: Replace worn or damaged wiper blades for optimal visibility.

Belts and Hoses:

  • Inspection: Have a mechanic inspect belts and hoses for signs of wear or damage.


Packing Essentials

Emergency Kit:

  • Jumper cables
  • First-aid kit
  • Flashlight
  • Water
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Warm clothing
  • Blankets

Roadside Assistance:

  • Ensure you have a valid membership or consider purchasing one.

Maps or GPS:

  • Plan your route and have a backup plan in case of unexpected road closures or delays.


Pre-Trip Maintenance

Oil Change:

  • If your oil change is due, schedule it before your trip.

Tire Alignment and Balancing:

  • Proper alignment and balancing can improve fuel efficiency and handling.

Vehicle Inspection:

  • When was your last inspection?

By following this checklist, you can ensure that your car is ready to take you to Grandma's house.


Give us a call and let us take care of you.


Happy Adventures,

Heather


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By jhautoinc January 30, 2026
These are vital to keep you safe on the road.
By jhautoinc January 27, 2026
Your engine will thank you.
By jhautoinc January 23, 2026
They help keep your engine cool.
By jhautoinc January 20, 2026
They need maintenance to keep them running.
By jhautoinc January 17, 2026
It's better for your engine. 
By jhautoinc January 13, 2026
They are more important than you know.
By jhautoinc January 10, 2026
A spark plug gap can cause a misfire.
By Bobby Poist January 7, 2026
They're important to keep you safe on the road.
By jhautoinc January 3, 2026
It's more often than you think.
By jhautoinc December 31, 2025
Batteries really don't like cold weather