Skip to main content

ROAD TRIP SAFETY TIPS

PREPARE FOR YOUR NEXT ROAD TRIP

Everything is easier with an acronym. TRIP is a great way to remember these important pre-travel checks to make sure you stay safe on the road.

  • Taillights and turn signals: Check to make sure all signals and lights are working
  • Roadside emergency kit: Make sure you pack one. We recommend packing blankets or extra clothes, snacks, water, flares, a flashlight, long jumper cables and a tow rope.
  • Inflation pressure: Setting proper inflation pressure on your tires helps ensure safety and fuel economy.
  • Penny test: Use a penny to determine if your tires have enough tread for the road. Just place a penny upside down in your tread. If any part of Lincoln’s head is covered by the tread, you should be road ready. If not, it may be time for new tires.

MORE PRE-TRAVEL VEHICLE CHECKLIST ITEMS

Basic Vehicle Check

Check your windshield wipers to make sure they’re working properly. Check all fluids, hose connections and lights. Always check to make sure gas tank is at least half full before you hit the road.

Oil

After fuel, oil is your car's most important fluid and it can get worn and dirty. Regularly scheduled oil changes will help keep your engine clean and avoid the potentially engine-damaging effects contaminated oil can inflict. If you want to maximize engine performance, and most importantly, engine life, don’t skimp on your engine’s most vital lubricant. Skipping oil changes, exceeding mileage or going long periods of time before your next oil change can accelerate the wear on vital parts that keep your car running smoothly, eventually leading to premature engine breakdown.

Transmission Fluid

Getting a transmission fluid change and transmission flush is important maintenance for your vehicle's performance. It’s a crucial step in keeping your car running newer, stronger longer. By keeping up with your vehicle's recommended transmission fluid change schedule, you can keep your transmission in good working order and decrease the likelihood of costly transmission repairs down the road. In many cases, a transmission fluid change is due every 30,000 miles or approximately every two years, but check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer recommendation for your vehicle.

Coolant

Just as motor oil has vital engine performance additives, your coolant has additives that prevent boiling, freezing and corrosion. When these additives are depleted, contaminants and debris can begin to build up on your vehicle’s radiator, affecting its performance. It’s essential to have your coolant fluid changed at the first 80,000 miles and then every 30,000 miles after that. Your car's radiator has the important task of keeping the engine warm in winter and cool in the summer, and that’s why cooling system maintenance is essential to the health of your engine and your vehicle.

A History of Innovation

Learn about our mission, our achievements, and our ongoing commitments