Acura Road Trip Tips & Vehicle Maintenance Checklist

Be sure to pack the essentials.

First things first: when you pack your car before your big adventure, don’t forget your vehicle emergency supplies and road trip survival kit. This emergency gear is not something you hope to use, but it’s indispensable should you need it. Here’s what we recommend you pack no matter where you might be heading:

• Driver’s License, Registration & Insurance Documents
• Fully Charged Phone & Car Charger
• Emergency Kit (Blanket, First Aid Kit, Jumper Cables, Flashlight, Basic Tools)
• Snacks & Water
• Spare Tire, Jack & Tire Iron
• Cash & Credit Cards
• Entertainment (Books, Music, Games)

Schedule Acura service prior to your trip.

It’s a question we get all the time: “Is my car too old for a road trip?” The answer isn’t always what people expect. It’s your car’s maintenance history and current mechanical condition, not age alone, that matter most.

To have us assess your car’s condition, schedule a professional road trip inspection at Acura of Salem. Our Acura service team will review your vehicle and recommend any necessary repairs or maintenance before you set off on your trip. The following road trip vehicle maintenance checklist outlines some of what we’ll do or inspect while your car is in our shop:

• Check and change engine oil if necessary
• Ensure all fluid levels (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid) are topped off
• Inspect and top up the tire pressure, including the spare tire
• Check tire tread and overall condition
• Test battery health and clean terminals if needed
• Examine and replace windshield wipers if worn
• Inspect and replace air filters (engine and cabin air filters)
• Ensure all lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals, hazard lights) are functioning properly
• Check the condition of the brakes and brake pads
• Inspect the belts and hoses for signs of wear or damage