Long road trips during the holidays, summer or for business often create a sense of freedom, adventure and new opportunities. But that romance can easily turn into stress if your car is not in perfect condition.
What could go wrong?
A flat tire on the highway. An overheated engine in the heat. Empty windshield wiper fluid during a storm.
All of these situations can be avoided if you take a little time and check the most important things before you set off.
In this article, you will discover 10 mandatory checks that every driver should do before a long trip – whether you are going alone, with family or colleagues.
1. Tread and tire wear
Even if the pressure is perfect, the tire tread should have a depth of at least 1.6 mm, with the optimal being over 3 mm for safety.
Worn tires cannot drain water in the rain → higher risk of aquaplaning and skidding.
👉 Visually check for cracks, bubbles, pebbles or uneven wear - these are signs of a suspension problem.
2. Tire pressure and condition
Tires are the only point of contact between the car and the road – and that is why they need to be given special attention.
Pressure: Check when the tires are cold, according to the manufacturer's recommendations (usually marked on the door or in the manual).
Consequences of incorrect pressure: excessive pressure reduces traction, while low pressure increases consumption and the risk of a blowout.
🔄 Don't forget the spare tire – it must also be inflated and in good condition!
3. Engine oil level
Oil is the lifeblood of the engine. If it's low, the engine can overheat, stall, or even be permanently damaged.
How to check?
• Park on a level surface, wait at least 5 minutes after turning off the engine.
• Remove the dipstick, clean it, re-insert it, and check the level.
🧠 Tip: If the oil is very dark and thick, it may be time to change it.
4. Coolant
Low or old antifreeze can lead to overheating in hot weather – one of the most common problems on long trips.
• Check when the engine is cold.
• The color should be clear (green, blue, red – depending on the type). Cloudiness = problem.
🔧 When in doubt – have a quick check at a service.
👉Not sure where to go? See How Ofertirai.me works and how you can easily request a service.
5. Wipers and wiper fluid
Good visibility is critical – especially on the highway, in the rain or against the sun.
- Make sure the tank is full.
- Check the condition of the wiper blades – if they drag, leave streaks or make noise, replace them.
💡 Tip: carry spare fluid – it’s useful, especially when traveling long distances.
6. Battery
Many people check everything… and forget about the battery.
• If it is over 3–4 years old, there is a risk of discharge.
• With low voltage, the car may not start, especially after a long stay.
📍 You can get it checked at most service stations in 5 minutes. It's worth it.
7. First aid kit, fire extinguisher, vest and triangle
These four things are mandatory by law and must be in working order.
- Check the expiration date of the first aid kit and the condition of the fire extinguisher.
- The vest should be in an accessible place (for example, the glove compartment, not in the trunk).
- The triangle – assembled, not broken.
8. Lights, turn signals and brake lights
This is not just a matter of comfort, but of law and safety.
• Check low, high, side lights, brake lights, turn signals and fog lights.
• Also check the rear reversing light – often overlooked.
⚠️ Broken bulb = fine + danger.
9. Documents and insurance
Finally – let everything be in order on paper.
• Civil liability – valid?
• GTP – passed technical inspection?
• Green card, if you are traveling abroad?
• Casco – if you have one, do you carry the policy?
📍 Also check if all documents are in a convenient place (for example, the gloves in the glove compartment).
10. Chargers, cables and GPS
You can't leave without a smartphone and navigation anymore.
• Take a car charger (12V), phone cables and, if possible, an external battery (power bank).
• Make sure that Google Maps or Waze is updated and you have mobile data.
💬 And one more thing: it's good to have an offline map - sometimes the coverage disappears just when you least expect it.
🧰 BONUS: If you're not sure – call a specialist
If you're wondering if something is wrong with your car, it's better not to take any chances. On the Ofertirai.me platform you can find:
• service stations by city,
• mobile mechanics who come to your address,
• express pre-trip inspections.
🚦Last words: better 30 minutes now than 3 hours in the emergency lane
Travel should be fun, not stressful. These 10 steps will help you avoid hassles and travel with ease and confidence.
If you're already packing, start with the list – and don't forget: Ofertirai.me is here if you need it assistance on the move.
👉 And if you want someone to think for you – look how our AI bot works, which finds the right specialist according to your task.