Vehicle Readiness & Inspection

Overview

Most roadside emergencies are preventable. A 5–10 minute pre‑trip inspection reduces breakdowns and makes minor issues manageable. Keep a minimal kit in the vehicle and adapt for season and terrain.

Pre-Trip Checks

Quick walkaround + dash scan.

• Tires: Pressure (placard in door jamb), tread depth (≥3 mm/4⁄32” for wet), sidewall damage, valve caps.
• Fluids: Oil, coolant overflow level, washer fluid; look for leaks under vehicle.
• Lights: Headlights, brake, reverse, turn signals, hazards.
• Wipers: Condition and operation; carry spares in harsh climates.
• Dash: Warning lights off? Check engine/service lights noted.

Belts & Hoses

Inspect for cracks, glazing, fraying; hoses for bulges, soft spots, or leaks. Squeeze radiator hoses (cool engine) — firm, not mushy.

Tire Health

Use a gauge; inspect tread wear patterns (center wear = overinflated, edges = underinflated, cupping = suspension issues). Verify spare or repair kit readiness.

Tire age

• Find the DOT date code (last 4 digits on sidewall): week and year (e.g., “2319” = 23rd week of 2019). Many manufacturers recommend replacing tires around 6–10 years regardless of tread due to age‑related degradation.
• Check the spare’s age and inflation too; spares often age out unnoticed.

Lights

Carry a spare bulb/fuse where practical; clean lenses; aim headlights properly.

Critical Spares

Pack items that fix common issues:

• Tire repair: Plug kit, compact compressor, pressure gauge
• Electrical: Assorted fuses, basic test light
• Fluids: Washer fluid; small oil/coolant top‑off (correct type)
• Tools: Jack, lug wrench, gloves, flashlight, triangle/flares, jumper cables or jump pack
• Seasonal: Blanket, shovel, traction aids (sand, mats), ice scraper, water

☑️ Checklist — Readiness Kit (Basic)

• Tire plug kit + compressor
• Jumper cables or jump pack (charged)
• Triangle/flares/high‑viz vest
• Gloves, flashlight/headlamp, shop towels
• Fuses, basic tools (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench)
• Fluids: washer, correct oil/coolant
• Blanket, water, snacks (season/region specific)

Examples

• Mountain trip: Increase tire pressure to placard; pack chains if required; add coolant rated for low temps; bring extra washer fluid.
• Summer highway: Check AC belt condition; test spare; pack water and sun protection.

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Key Takeaways

• Ten minutes of checks prevent hours of roadside problems.
• Tires, fluids, and lights are the high‑value items; pack a minimal repair kit.
• Adjust kit and checks for season and terrain.

Scenario

🧭 Scenario (Pre‑trip save): A drywall screw in a rear tire on the walkaround.
🔍 Decisions: Drive anyway vs plug now; compressor ready?
✅ Outcome: You plug the tread, air to placard pressure, and avoid a freeway shoulder change at night.
🧠 Lessons: Five minutes saves hours
🏋️ Drill: Plug a tire on an old carcass or practice on a demo kit.