Watch to learn more
From your tires and wheels to your wipers and spare, we check it all for Free!
Road trips can put extra stress on your vehicle, especially during long highway miles, hot weather, and heavy cargo loads. Before you hit the road, take time to inspect your tires and vehicle to reduce the risk of breakdowns and improve safety during your trip.
Use our road trip checklist below for better confidence and safety before you travel!
WHY A ROAD TRIP VEHICLE INSPECTION MATTERS
Long distance driving increases wear and stress on your tires, brakes, battery, and cooling system. Highway speeds, highway temperatures, and extra luggage can also affect your vehicle’s performance.
A vehicle pre-trip inspection can help:
- Identify tire or vehicle issues before they become serious
- Improve traction and handling
- Reduce the risk of roadside emergencies
- Improve fuel efficiency
- Travel more safely in changing weather and road conditions
Even a quick visual inspection can make a big difference!
ROAD TRIP TIRE CHECKLIST
Your tires are one of the most important parts of your vehicle for safety and performance. Before traveling, inspect your tires and address any visible problems.
Discount Tire also offers FREE tire inspections!
FREE TIRE INSPECTION1. Check tire pressure
Use the tire pressure recommended by your vehicle manufacturer, which is usually listed on the drive side placard or in your owner’s manual. Don’t use the max pressure listed on the tire.
For the most accurate reading:
- Check tire pressure when tires are cold
- Use a reliable tire pressure gauge
- Inflate all tires to the recommended psi
- Check your spare tire, too
Keep in mind that your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) may not detect every tire issue or gradual loss.
HOW TO CHECK TIRE PRESSUREQuick Road Trip Tire Pressure Checklist:
- Check all 4 tires before leaving
- Check all 4 tires regularly during trip
- Monitor air pressure during major temperature changes
- Reinflate tires if pressure drops below recommended psi
2. Inspect tread depth
Tread depth affects traction, especially in wet driving conditions.
Inspect your tread for:
- Low tread depth
- Uneven wear
- Bald spots
- Excessive wear on one side of the tire
If your tires show significant wear or uneven tread patterns, have a tire expert inspect them before your trip.
HOW TO MEASURE TIRE TREAD DEPTH3. Look for tire damage
Inspect each tire carefully for signs of damage, including:
- Cracks in the sidewall
- Bulges or bubbles
- Nails or punctures
- Cuts or exposed cords
Visible tire damage can increase the risk of tire failure during highway driving.
WHAT DOES TIRE DAMAGE LOOK LIKE?4. Check tire alignment and rotation
Uneven treadwear or steering wheel that pulls to one side may indicate alignment issues.
You may need a tire rotation or alignment if you notice:
- Uneven treadwear
- Vehicle pulling left or right
- Vibrations while driving
- Off-center steering wheel
Addressing these issues before a long drive can improve handling and tire life.
Discount Tire offers free rotation and balance services to our customers!
ROTATION & BALANCE SERVICESelect Discount Tire locations now offer alignment services!
DISCOUNT TIRE ALIGNMENT SERVICES5. Don’t forget your spare tire!
Before your trip:
- Check the spare tire’s air pressure
- Verify the jack, lug wrench, and other tools are in your vehicle
- Make sure you know how to access your spare
ESSENTIAL CAR SAFETY CHECKS BEFORE A LONG DRIVE
In addition to your tires, inspect the rest of your vehicle before long trips.
1. Check fluid levels
Inspect and fill fluids as needed, including:
- Engine oil
- Coolant
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
Low or dirty fluids can affect vehicle performance and increase the risk of overheating or mechanical issues.
2. Inspect your brakes
Pay attention to warning signs, such as:
- Squealing or grinding noises
- Vibrations while braking
- Reduced stopping responsiveness
If your brakes don’t feel normal, have them inspected at a trusted auto shop.
3. Test battery health
A weak battery can leave you stranded during a road trip.
Check for:
- Corrosion on battery terminals
- Slow engine starts
- Dim lights
- An aging battery
If you’re unsure about the battery condition, have it tested at an auto shop. Also, many auto parts stores offer free battery testing.
4. Check wipers and lights
Visibility always matters, no matter the distance driven. It is illegal in all states to drive without functioning headlights and taillights.
Before your trip:
- Test headlights and brake lights
- Replace burned out bulbs
- Inspect windshield wiper blades
- Refill washer fluid
Worn wipers can reduce visibility during rain or dusty driving conditions.
SHOP WINDSHIELD WIPERS5. Test your cooling and A/C
Hot weather and highway driving can place additional stress on your cooling system.
Watch for:
- Rising temperature gauges
- Coolant leaks
- Weak air conditioning performance
Overheating can quickly turn into a serious roadside issue during summer travel.
EMERGENCY ROAD TRIP SUPPLIES EVERY VEHICLE SHOULD HAVE
You can be prepared for unexpected situations by packing emergency supplies for long trips.
Consider keeping these in your vehicle:
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight
- Tire inflator or portable air compressor
- First aid kit
- Drinking water
- Non-perishable, heat-tolerant snacks
- Phone charger
- Reflective warning triangles
- Portable battery pack
You may also want to carry gloves, basic hand tools, and blankets.
SAFE LOADING TIPS FOR LONG TRIPS
Overloading your vehicle can increase stress on your tires and suspension. It also reduces fuel efficiency.
When packing:
- Avoid exceeding your vehicle’s load capacity
You can find your vehicle’s Tire and Loading capacity on your vehicle placard, which is usually located on your driver’s side door jamb. - Distribute weight evenly
- Secure loose cargo
- Inspect roof racks, cargo carriers, and trailers carefully
Heavy loads can affect braking distance, handling, and tire wear.
SAFE DRIVING TIPS FOR LONG ROAD TRIPS
Driving habits play a huge role in road trip safety.
1. Take regular breaks
Long horus behind the wheel can lead to fatigue. During long drives:
- Stop regularly to stretch and rest
- Stay hydrated
- Switch drivers when possible
2. Avoid distracted driving
Keep your attention on the road by:
- Limiting phone use while driving
- Setting your navigation before leaving
- Avoiding unnecessary distractions inside the vehicle
3. Watch for road hazards
Road hazards can damage your tires and vehicle.
Drive carefully around:
- Road debris
- Construction zones
- Large potholes
- Uneven pavement
4. Monitor tire pressure during temperature changes
Both high and low temperatures can affect tire pressure. Check your tire pressure periodically during extended trips, especially during extreme temperature changes.
VEHICLE WARNING SIGNS
Some vehicle problems should not be ignored while travelling.
Consider postponing your trip if you notice:
- Dashboard warning lights
- Bald or damaged tires
- Fluid leaks
- Brake problems
- Battery issues
- Overheating concerns
Addressing problems before you leave may help prevent more serious issues down the road.
FAQ
Before a road trip, inspect tire pressure, tread depth, brakes, fluid levels, battery condition, lights, windshield wipers, and emergency supplies. A pre-trip inspection can help reduce the risk of breakdowns and improve safety during long-distance driving.
Check tire pressure before leaving and periodically during long trips, especially during significant temperature changes or after driving long distances.
Use the tire pressure recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. This information is typically located on the driver-side door placard or in your owner’s manual. Do not use the max psi listed on your tire.
No. Old tires and tires with visible damage, excessive wear, or low tread depth may not perform safely during a drive of any distance. If you’re unsure about your tire’s condition, bring it to us for a FREE inspection!
As a general rule, deeper tread means better traction and control. Experts recommend replacing your tires once they reach 4/32’’ of tread depth to avoid a loss of traction, especially in wet conditions.
Yes, if it has been 5-8,000 miles since your last rotation or if you notice uneven treadwear.
Yes. Tire pressure can change as temperatures rise or fall. Monitor tire pressure during hot weather and adjust inflation to the manufacturer’s recommended psi when tires are cold.
To help reduce the risk of tire problems during long drives:
Maintain proper tire pressure
Inspect tread and sidewalls
Avoid overloading your vehicle
Watch for road hazards
Replace damaged or excessively worn tires
For more information on this and other tire and wheel services, check out our YouTube Channel or reach out to us on X, Facebook and Instagram.