Twenty minutes in the driveway beats four hours on the shoulder. Run this twelve-point checklist — the same one we use for customer trip inspections — a week before departure, so there's time to fix anything you find.
Tires and brakes (5 minutes)
- Pressures to the door sticker, including the spare.
- Tread depth and sidewall cracks; tires older than six years deserve a professional look.
- Test braking from 30 mph in a safe spot — straight, quiet, no pulsing.
Fluids and belts (5 minutes)
- Oil level, coolant level (cold engine only), washer fluid full.
- Glance at belts for cracking and hoses for swelling.
- Note your next oil-change mileage — don't let it land mid-trip.
Lights, wipers and battery (5 minutes)
- Every exterior light, both wiper speeds, horn and hazards.
- Battery older than four years? Get our free load test before you leave.
Paperwork and packing (5 minutes)
- Insurance card, registration, roadside numbers saved in your phone.
- Our number too: (555) 214-7788 — plus a charged power bank.
- Water, snacks, blanket and a real spare or inflator kit.
Want us to do it?
Our trip-ready inspection covers all twelve points plus a computer scan and lift check — usually same-day. Book a week out and travel easy.
