Each year, millions of people hit the highways to celebrate Thanksgiving with family and friends. Whether it’s enjoying classic recipes that have been handed down for generations, watching football, or taking a post-turkey nap, Thanksgiving is one of the most beloved holidays we celebrate. To be certain you arrive before your cousin eats all the pumpkin pie, make sure your car is ready for Thanksgiving, too!

Download the AAA Mobile App

Download the AAA Mobile app and add this contact in your phone: 800-AAA-HELP (800-222-4357). If something unexpected happens on the way to Thanksgiving dinner, AAA is available 24/7. A professional roadside Technician will come to you and get you moving!

Have Your Car Battery Inspected

The car battery is the lifeforce for your vehicle. When it dies, you’re stuck. Most of the time, there’s no warning that your battery is failing. Schedule a car battery inspection at your home, office, or wherever is most convenient for you. A professional Battery Service Technician comes to your door to make sure your vehicle is ready to go when you are!

The Technician performs a complete diagnostic test of your charging system, and checks that the battery connections are clean, tight, and free of corrosion. Then, if needed, the Technician can replace your battery on the spot. All AAA batteries come with a six-year warranty (three years free replacement).

Check Your Fluids and Tires

Make sure your oil and fluids are topped off, and check that your tire treads are at least 2/32 of an inch deep. An easy way to make sure your tires are road ready is to place a penny, headfirst, into the tread grooves. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your treads are shallow and worn, and should be replaced.

Pack an Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is essential should your car breakdown. A good emergency kit includes essential supplies in case you get stranded for a few hours, like blankets, an ice scraper, non-perishable snacks, water, road flares, a basic first aid kit, a flashlight, and batteries.

Are We There Yet?

With notoriously short attention spans, bored, cranky kids create stress and distraction for the driver. Keeping children entertained on a long trip helps the miles pass quickly. While electronic devices and headphones keep little ones tuned in and quiet, road trip games, activity books, simple crafts, and miniature board games are a few tried and true ways to make long car rides fun.

With some quick and easy preventative maintenance and planning, you’ll be lounging on the couch with a full belly before you know it. Your car will be in the driveway to safely take you and your plate of leftovers home after the last slice of pumpkin pie is gone.

Before you hit the road for Thanksgiving, have your car serviced or checked by a trusted mechanic. Use the AAA Approved Auto Care tool to find a AAA-approved garage in your area. 

AAA Approved Auto Care