How to Get Your Older Car Road-Trip Ready

Compared with newer models, cars that are more than 10 years old are twice as likely to break down and leave their drivers stranded, according to AAA roadside data. Breakdowns aren’t just inconvenient and expensive—they can be dangerous. Imagine traffic flying by at 65 miles per hour just a few feet from your disabled car and all the risks that come with it.

Fortunately, with proper vehicle maintenance, an older car can be just as dependable as a newer one. That’s good news, especially since the average car in the US is now a record-breaking 12.8 years old, according to S&P Global Mobility. 

Here are some tips to help keep your older car ready for a trouble-free road trip.

Check the battery

According to local data compiled by AAA, the leading cause of roadside calls is a dead battery, accounting for about a quarter of all service requests.

To reduce the risk of battery trouble before your trip, make sure to do the following: 

• Have your battery load-tested to ensure it can still hold a proper charge.
• Check that it’s securely mounted, as a loose battery can bounce around, exposing it to jolts and vibrations that can shorten its lifespan.
• Verify that the terminal connections are tight and free of corrosion.
• Confirm that the alternator is working properly, as a faulty alternator won’t keep your battery charged.
• Consider replacing the battery if it’s five years old or more. (In hot climates, battery life can be significantly shorter—often just three to four years.)
• If your car sits unused for long periods, consider using a battery maintainer or trickle charger to prevent drain.

Check the tire

Tire failure is the second most common cause of roadside breakdowns. Here’s what you can do to reduce your risk:

• Check air pressure regularly, including the spare tire. You don’t want to discover it’s flat when you need it most.
• Inspect for uneven wear, which could indicate the need for a tire rotation, wheel alignment, or even suspension repairs.
• Look for visible damage, such as cuts, cracks, or bulging sidewalls, which can signal an impending blowout.
• Measure tread depth. Tires with less than 4/32 of an inch of tread have been shown in tests to be significantly compromised on wet roads, increasing the risk of hydroplaning.

• Check the age of your tires. Even with good tread, tires older than six years may be prone to dry rot or internal degradation. The last four digits of the DOT code, stamped on the tire’s sidewall, reference the week and year of manufacture. For example, if the last four digits of this code are 3420, the tire was made in the 34th week of 2020. (In the unlikelihood that the tire date code has only three digits, the tire was made before 2000—and belongs in a museum, not on your car. Also, don’t forget to check the spare!

Examine the brakes, exhaust system, and suspension

Failure of brakes or suspension components can do more than cause a breakdown; they could cause a crash. And, if exhaust system leaks allow carbon monoxide to reach the driver and passengers, the results could be catastrophic. To prevent this from happening, be sure to do the following:

• Confirm that the brake pads or linings have plenty of friction material remaining.
• Look for signs of brake fluid leaks. 
• Make sure the brake fluid is at the proper level and is clean. (Brake fluid can absorb moisture over time, reducing effectiveness.) 
• Inspect brake lines and hoses for cracking or corrosion.
• While the car is on a lift, also check the exhaust system for rust, leaks, or loose hangers, and examine suspension components for wear or damage (such as leaking shocks, cracked bushings, or loose ball joints).

Stay current on scheduled maintenance

If your road trip will push your vehicle past a recommended service interval, take care of it before you leave. For example, if your car has 103,000 miles and your trip will add 3,000 more—and your manufacturer recommends a timing belt replacement at 105,000 miles—do it before the trip. Preventive maintenance now could save you from a major breakdown later.

Test electrical components

Check that all electrical components are working properly, including the following:

• Exterior lights (headlights, taillights, brake lights, side markers, license plate lights)
• Interior lights, turn signals, and hazard flashers
• Windshield wipers and washers (front and rear)
• Horn
• Heating and A/C systems
• Front and rear defrosters, including side-mirror defoggers if equipped

Inspect belts and hoses

Belts and hoses degrade with age and heat, so it’s important to check them before a long drive.

• Replace belts that are cracked, frayed, or missing chunks of rubber.
• Inspect hoses for signs of cracking, leaking, or bulging.
• Hoses should feel firm, not mushy or brittle. If they feel soft and spongy or make a “crunch” sound when squeezed, it’s time to replace them.

Check the cooling system

Vehicle overheating is a common cause of breakdowns in hot weather, especially on long highway drives or in mountainous terrain. Avoid this problem by following these tips:

• Check the coolant level, and make sure the fluid is clean and in the proper concentration.
• Inspect the radiator for leaks, corrosion, or damage.
• Ensure that the thermostat is working properly, and confirm that cooling fans turn on when they should.

Don’t run out of gas

This might sound obvious, but keep an eye on your gas gauge, and plan fuel stops. AAA does receive emergency calls from drivers who simply run out of fuel.

Avoid lockouts

Always double-check that you have the keys in hand before locking the car. Locking yourself out of your car is an easy mistake that can derail your day.

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By following these tips, you can address most of the issues that cause breakdowns before you hit the road—and drive that older car with greater confidence on your next vacation.