Whether you’re cruising down I-15 toward Zion, exploring the scenic routes of Eastern Oregon, or heading north to catch the Tetons in Idaho, a smooth summer road trip starts with smart car maintenance. Before you pack the snacks and load up the playlist, it’s worth taking the time to make sure your vehicle is ready to go the distance.

This guide covers essential road trip car maintenance tips so you can focus on the adventure, not unexpected repairs.

1. Check Fluids and Filters

Your engine needs clean, full fluids to survive long distances and summer heat. This includes:

  • Engine oil: Old or low oil can lead to overheating and permanent engine damage. Get an oil change if you’re close to your interval.
  • Coolant: Utah’s July heat and Idaho’s high-elevation climbs can push your cooling system to its limit.
  • Transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid: Check levels and top off if needed.
  • Air filters (engine and cabin): A clogged filter limits airflow and fuel efficiency, especially when driving through dusty areas like Arches or Craters of the Moon.

If you’re not sure what your car needs, stop by one of our Master AutoTech shops in Salt Lake, Ogden, or Twin Falls—we’ll inspect and top off what’s necessary.

2. Inspect the Brakes

Nothing kills a road trip like unreliable brakes.

If you’re hearing grinding, squeaking, or feeling vibration in the brake pedal, don’t ignore it. Mountain driving in Oregon’s Cascades or descending Big Cottonwood Canyon demands confident stopping power.

Let our techs check:

  • Brake pads and rotors
  • Brake fluid condition
  • Lines and calipers for wear or leaks

Pro tip: Brakes tend to overheat more easily when you’re carrying extra cargo or driving in hot weather—both common on summer road trips.

3. Evaluate Your Tires

Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that actually touches the road, so don’t leave their condition up to chance.

Before your trip, get a tire service:

  • Check tire pressure (including the spare): Underinflated tires can lead to blowouts, especially on hot pavement.
  • Inspect tread depth: Try the penny test—if you see Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace the tire.
  • Look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear: Utah’s dry heat and Idaho’s rough backroads can do a number on old rubber.
  • Consider a rotation or alignment: Especially if your last one was more than 6,000 miles ago.

If you’re heading off-road near Capitol Reef or planning a long drive through Oregon’s forest service roads, consider upgrading to more durable all-season or all-terrain tires.

4. Test the Battery and Electrical Systems

High temps and long drives are hard on car batteries. If your battery is over three years old, have it tested—especially if you’re driving through remote areas like Idaho’s Salmon River corridor where help isn’t nearby.

We recommend:

  • Checking battery voltage and connection terminals
  • Inspecting for corrosion
  • Ensuring headlights, taillights, brake lights, and blinkers all work

Driving through the fog near the Oregon coast or through late-night desert roads in Utah requires reliable lighting. Don’t skip this one.

5. AC and Wiper Blades

Driving across Utah in July without working A/C? That’s a fast way to fry your road trip mood. Make sure your:

  • Air conditioning is blowing cold
  • Windshield wipers clear without streaks
  • Washer fluid is topped off

Weather can turn quickly in the mountains—don’t underestimate a pop-up summer thunderstorm over Boise or Bend.

6. Don’t Forget the “Little Things”

These final items might not seem urgent until you’re miles away from the nearest shop:

  • Belts and hoses: Cracked or frayed? Replace them before they snap mid-trip.
  • Spare tire: Make sure it’s inflated and that your jack and tools are accessible.
  • Emergency kit: Jumper cables, a flashlight, basic tools, first aid, and extra water.

Local Road Trips We Love (and Why Maintenance Matters)

  • Salt Lake City to Moab: 230+ miles of desert heat, steep grades, and minimal service stops. A weak cooling system won’t survive it.
  • Boise to Stanley, ID: Beautiful, but remote. A brake failure in the Sawtooths? That’s a situation you want to avoid.
  • Portland to Crater Lake: Long grades, potential summer thunderstorms, and heavy tourist traffic—be sure your tires and wipers are dialed in.

Don’t Forget Post-Trip Maintenance

Long drives can take a toll on your vehicle. After your road trip, consider stopping by for a quick post-trip inspection—especially if you noticed changes in handling, odd noises, or warning lights during your drive.

Ready to Hit the Road?

Schedule an inspection and car maintenance before your road trip at your nearest Master AutoTech location. 

Our technicians know what it takes to drive in the heat and elevation of the Intermountain West. We’ll make sure your vehicle is road-ready, whether you’re driving through the Wasatch Range or chasing waterfalls in Oregon.

For more summer-specific advice, check out our summer car care tips blog.