Thanksgiving morning is usually a whirlwind — packing the car, grabbing the last-minute side dish, wrangling kids, pets, or both. But before you pull out of the driveway for that longer holiday trip, giving your vehicle a quick once-over can make the entire day smoother and safer.
Here’s a simple, fast checklist you can complete right at home on Thanksgiving Day. No tools, no stress — just peace of mind before you hit the road.
1. Check Your Tire Pressure (Cold Weather Drops PSI Fast)
Thanksgiving tends to come with cold mornings, and cold air reduces tire pressure.
Low PSI affects traction, fuel economy, and braking performance — all things you want in top shape for holiday travel.
What to do:
- Check the PSI on all four tires (and your spare).
- Inflate to the recommended pressure listed on your driver’s door jamb.
It takes less than five minutes and makes a big difference.
2. Take a Look at Your Fluid Levels
You don’t need to be a technician to check the basics. A quick peek under the hood can prevent roadside headaches later.
Focus on:
- Engine oil (look for a safe level and normal color)
- Windshield washer fluid (holiday traffic = more spraying and winter grime)
- Coolant level (especially important if temperatures are dropping)
If anything looks low, top it off before you go.
3. Test Your Lights — All of Them
Visibility matters, especially with early sunsets and potential snow flurries.
Do a fast walk-around to confirm:
- Headlights
- Brake lights
- Turn signals
- Hazard flashers
It’s a 60-second check that keeps you safe and keeps others aware of your movements.
4. Make Sure Your Wipers Can Handle the Drive
Streaking or skipping wipers are more than an annoyance — they limit visibility in rain, sleet, or road spray.
Quick test:
Turn them on with washer fluid.
If they smear, chatter, or leave lines, it may be time to replace them — but at minimum, you’ll know to expect reduced visibility and give yourself extra following distance.
5. Listen to Your Vehicle Before You Leave
A quick driveway check can reveal problems early.
Start the car and pay attention to:
- Slow cranking (may indicate a weak battery)
- Unusual squeals or grinding
- Warning lights
- Strong or unusual smells
If anything feels “off,” don’t ignore it. The earlier you know, the safer your drive will be.
6. Heat, Defrost, and Climate Control Check
Before you load up the car, turn the heat and defrosters on for a minute.
You want:
- Warm air blowing consistently
- Windows clearing quickly
- No odd noises from the blower motor
Comfort matters, especially on longer drives with family or pets.
7. Pack Your Quick-Grab Essentials
A small preparedness kit goes a long way on a holiday weekend.
Include:
- Phone charger
- Ice scraper
- Blanket
- Gloves
- Snacks and water
- Any medications
- Directions saved offline (holiday cell towers can get busy)
It’s simple, but it keeps the day running smoothly.
A Few Minutes Now = A Safe, Stress-Free Thanksgiving Drive
The day of a big holiday trip doesn’t need to feel chaotic. A short, thoughtful checklist gives you confidence before you hit the highway — and helps ensure the only surprises waiting for you are the good kind.
From all of us at Aeschbach Automotive, we wish you a safe, warm, and happy Thanksgiving wherever the road takes you. And when the holiday settles down, we’re here to help you understand and care for your vehicle year-round.
