Pre-Road Trip Walkaround Checklist

🚗 Five minutes. Ten checks. Zero surprises.

Before you pack the snacks and fire up the playlist, give your car a quick walkaround. You’re not doing a service — just a fast safety sweep that prevents roadside hassle miles from home.

The 10-Point Walkaround

☐ 1. Tires
    Look for low tread, bulges, or nails. Check pressures on all four tyres plus the spare.

☐ 2. Fluids
    Oil, coolant, washer fluid, brake fluid. Top up what’s low and watch for leaks.

☐ 3. Lights
    Headlights, brake lights, indicators, reverse lights. Use a window reflection or grab a helper.

☐ 4. Wipers & Washer
    If they streak or skip, replace the blades. Confirm the washer jets spray properly.

☐ 5. Belts & Hoses (Under Hood)
    No cracks, frays, or leaks. Hoses should feel firm, not soft or spongy.

☐ 6. Battery
    Check for corrosion and tight terminals. If it’s 4–5 years old, consider replacing before a long trip.

☐ 7. Brakes
    Listen for grinding or squealing. Pedal should feel normal — no pulsing or sinking.

☐ 8. Leaks Underneath
    Scan for fresh drips or puddles that weren’t there yesterday.

☐ 9. Emergency Gear
    Jack, wheel brace, spare tyre, first-aid kit, flashlight — make sure it’s all present and working.

☐ 10. Registration & Insurance
    Keep your documents in the glove box or accessible on your phone.

Pro Tip:

Do this two days before your trip, not the morning of. It gives you time to fix anything you find without stressing.