Ultimate Colorado Road Trip Prep Checklist
Ultimate Colorado Road-Trip Prep Checklist: Get Your Ride Ready for the Rockies
If you’re gearing up for an unforgettable Colorado road trip, your adventure starts with a reliable ride. From steep mountain climbs to winding scenic byways, your vehicle has to be ready for anything. At Big Joe Auto, we’ve helped drivers across Colorado Springs and beyond prepare for epic getaways — and we’ve packed all that knowledge into this ultimate road-trip prep checklist.
1. Inspect Your Tires
Check your tread depth
Your tires are your first line of defense against unpredictable terrain. A simple way to check is the penny test: insert a penny with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time for new tires. Good tread helps you maintain control on dirt roads, wet pavement, or sudden gravel patches.
Look for sidewall damage or uneven wear
Inspect each tire’s sidewall for cracks, bulges, or cuts. These could be signs of aging rubber or prior impact damage. Uneven wear may signal alignment or suspension issues, which could worsen on long trips. Addressing these early prevents flats or blowouts during your adventure.
Top off tire pressure
Altitude affects air pressure. As you climb into higher elevations, tire PSI drops. Underinflated tires decrease fuel efficiency and increase the risk of a blowout. Check your tire pressure and inflate to manufacturer's specs before hitting the road.
2. Test Your Battery
Make sure it charges properly
A battery that doesn’t hold a charge might leave you stranded in a remote location. Use a multimeter or visit your local service center for a quick voltage check. A healthy battery should read 12.6 volts or more when fully charged.
Clean any Corrosion on Terminals
Battery terminals can corrode over time, especially if exposed to moisture or chemicals. Use a terminal brush or baking soda solution to clean the contacts, ensuring a solid electrical connection. This small step can prevent hard starts and electrical issues.
Replace it if it’s 3+ years old or starting slowly
Car batteries generally last 3 to 5 years. If your vehicle is slow to start or has dimming headlights, it might be time for a replacement. Better to swap it out now than risk a dead battery in a mountain parking lot with no cell service.
3. Top Off Fluids
Engine Oil
Check the oil level and its condition — dark, gritty oil should be changed. Oil lubricates your engine, preventing overheating and premature wear, especially during extended drives through mountain passes.
Coolant/Antifreeze
Coolant regulates your engine’s temperature and prevents it from freezing in cold weather or boiling in extreme heat. Make sure it's at the proper level and appears clean, not cloudy or rusty. Bring extra if you're heading into remote areas.
Brake Fluid
Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and can lose effectiveness, especially on steep descents where brakes are under constant stress. If it looks dirty or the pedal feels soft, it’s time for a flush or top-off.
Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid helps your gears shift smoothly. If it’s low or burnt, you might experience jerking or slipping while driving uphill. Check the color — clean fluid should be red or pink.
Washer Fluid
Visibility is key in Colorado’s bug-filled summers and dusty roads. Make sure your washer fluid is topped off and rated for summer use, so you can clean your windshield on the go.
4. Pack a Colorado-Smart Emergency Kit
Jumper Cables or Battery Booster
Dead batteries happen, especially in cold mountain mornings. Keep jumper cables or a portable jump starter in your trunk — it’s one of the most commonly used emergency items.
First-aid Supplies, Flashlight, Blanket
Even a quick scenic drive can become an overnight ordeal if your car breaks down. A basic first-aid kit, a warm blanket, and a flashlight with spare batteries can provide peace of mind and safety in unexpected situations.
Tire Repair Kit or Inflator
Many Colorado trails and byways are miles from the nearest tire shop. A compact tire repair kit or portable inflator can help you temporarily patch a flat and reach help or safety without waiting for roadside assistance.
Non-Perishable Snacks, Water
Hiking, driving, or being stuck in traffic can drain your energy. Keep granola bars, trail mix, and bottled water on hand — especially if you’re traveling with kids or pets.
A Physical Map
Cell service can disappear quickly in canyons, forests, and mountain ranges. A paper map or printed directions ensures you can still navigate, even when your phone loses signal.
5. Check Your Climate Control and Wipers
Test your AC and Heat
Colorado can be 90 degrees in the city and 40 up in the mountains. Make sure both the air conditioning and heating systems are functioning so you can stay comfortable no matter the altitude or weather.
Replace Wiper Blades
Old or streaky wipers make it hard to see during sudden rain showers or when dirt and bugs cover your windshield. Replace them if they squeak, skip, or smear — it’s a small cost for major visibility improvement.
Clean Inside and Outside Glass
Dust, glare, and fingerprints can reduce visibility, especially during sunrise or sunset drives through the mountains. Use a quality glass cleaner to wipe down all windows and mirrors before your trip.
Whether it’s a relaxing drive through Garden of the Gods or a backwoods trek to Telluride, you need a vehicle you can count on. Big Joe Auto is here to help you make it there — and back — with confidence.
🛻 Explore our road-trip ready inventory at BigJoeAuto.com today!
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