Posted on 10/31/2025
The Thanksgiving holiday brings family gatherings, full highways, and a strong desire to arrive on time and stress-free. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most common times of year for roadside breakdowns. A little preparation ahead of your road trip can help you avoid ending up stranded on the shoulder while everyone else is carving the turkey. Even if your car has been reliable all year, the combination of colder weather, increased traffic, and longer trips can reveal hidden problems. Here are the key areas to check before you head out. Start With the Battery Car batteries are more likely to fail during temperature swings, especially if they’re already weak. A quick battery test at a local repair shop can determine if it’s holding a proper charge. If you’ve noticed sluggish starts or dim headlights, it might be time for a replacement. Check the battery terminals too. Corrosion, loose cables, or damaged connectors can prevent the battery ... read more