Is Your Car Ready for Thanksgiving Road Trips? Here’s How to Prepare

Nov 21, 2024 | Seasonal Tips

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Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and if you’re like most people, you’re probably gearing up for a big holiday meal, time with family, and maybe a road trip to Grandma’s house. It’s one of the busiest travel weekends of the year, which means you’ll want to make sure your car is as ready for the journey as you are.

Whether you’re staying local or hitting the highway from DC to Alexandria or beyond, a little prep goes a long way toward making sure you arrive with no car trouble—and all the pies intact.

Check Your Tires: Don’t Let Flats Ruin the Feast

Your tires are what connect your car to the road, and when you’re packing up for a Thanksgiving trip, they’re more important than ever. Make sure to:

  • Check the tire pressure: Colder weather can drop tire pressure quickly, which affects fuel efficiency and handling. Your car manual will tell you the correct PSI.
  • Look at the tread: Worn-out tread can make driving in bad weather dangerous. Use the “penny test”—if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head when you stick a penny in the tread, it’s time for new tires.

If you’re not sure your tires are ready for the trip, swing by one of our shops for a quick inspection. We’ll check your pressure, tread, and alignment to make sure your car handles like it should.

Inspect Your Battery Before You Hit the Road

You know the scene: It’s Thanksgiving morning, you’re packed up and ready to go… and the car won’t start. Car batteries are notorious for quitting when the weather gets colder, and no one wants to deal with a dead battery while the turkey’s in the oven.

Before you hit the road, get your battery checked to make sure it’s holding a full charge. If it’s older than three years, it might be time to swap it out for a new one. Trust me, replacing it ahead of time is a lot easier than waiting for a jump on a holiday weekend.

Lights, Wipers, Action: See and Be Seen

November weather can be unpredictable—rain, sleet, or even snow can make Thanksgiving travel a challenge. Before you head out, double-check that your:

  • Headlights are bright and aimed properly. Dim or cloudy lights are no good for driving at night.
  • Windshield wipers are working well and not leaving streaks. If they’ve seen better days, replace them now.
  • Brake lights and turn signals are all functioning. Being visible to other drivers is key when roads get busy.

Don’t Skip the Oil and Fluids

Long drives can put extra stress on your engine, and running low on oil or coolant is a recipe for disaster. Check your car’s essential fluids, including:

  • Engine oil
  • Coolant/antifreeze
  • Windshield washer fluid (especially a winter-grade version for the season)
  • Transmission and brake fluids

If you’re due for an oil change or your fluids look low, let’s get that taken care of before your trip. A quick stop at one of our shops ensures your engine stays healthy, no matter how many miles you’re covering.

Pack a Holiday Safety Kit

You can’t predict everything, but you can be prepared. Keep a simple safety kit in your car, just in case:

  • Jumper cables
  • Tire inflator and pressure gauge
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Blankets for the colder weather
  • Snacks and water for hungry passengers (and drivers!)

A little preparation goes a long way toward making sure everyone arrives happy—and warm.

Enjoy the Drive (And the Pie)

Thanksgiving is about spending time with loved ones, not worrying about car trouble on the side of the road. A quick inspection before your trip can save you from stress, delays, and awkward calls for roadside help. If your car hasn’t been checked in a while, we’ll get you sorted so you can focus on the important stuff—like whether to grab seconds of mashed potatoes.

Schedule Your Pre-Thanksgiving Inspection Today

Before you hit the road this Thanksgiving, bring your car to Old Ox Tire & Auto. We’ll inspect your tires, battery, brakes, and fluids to make sure everything’s ready for the holiday rush.

Old Ox Tire & Auto

  • DC: 202-481-0685
  • Sterling/Dulles: 703-956-9811
  • Alexandria: 703-888-2654
  • Arlington: 703-534-4222

Schedule your appointment here.

Because the only thing you should be worrying about this Thanksgiving is saving room for dessert.