Getting Your Car Ready for a Quebec Road Trip
A Quebec road trip is great fun, until you break down two hours from the nearest garage. Gaspésie, Charlevoix, the Laurentians: often long roads with few services. At the garage, we see vacations ruined by breakdowns that would have taken five minutes to spot before leaving.
Here's what to check before you load the trunk.
The Pre-Trip Checklist
✅ Check 1 week before departure
Tires (pressure + wear) · Oil level and condition · Coolant · Brakes · Battery · Wipers + washer fluid · All lights · Spare tire (or repair kit)
Tires First
They're your only contact with the road. Check pressure cold (it changes with temperature) and wear. A long highway drive heats tires up, so start with tires in good shape. And make sure you have an inflated spare or a repair kit.
Under the Hood
Check the oil (level AND color), coolant (key to avoid summer overheating), washer fluid, and glance at the belts. If an oil change is due soon, do it before you leave rather than out in the regions.
The Kit to Keep in the Car
Jumper cables (or a booster), a flashlight, water, a first-aid kit, a phone charger, and a roadside-assistance number. On Quebec's long roads, cell coverage isn't always there.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before leaving should I get my car checked?
Ideally a week. That leaves time to order a part if something needs repair.
Do you offer a "pre-trip" inspection?
Yes. We check the essentials (tires, brakes, fluids, battery) and give it to you straight before the big departure.
My car is fine in the city, is that enough for a long trip?
Not always. The highway stresses the car differently (heat, sustained speed). A small city issue can become big over 500 km.
Big trip coming up?
Garage Path57 — 7971 15e Ave, Saint-Michel, Montreal, QC H1Z 3N5
Book a pre-trip inspection and hit the road with peace of mind.
Garage Path57 · 7971 15e Avenue, Montréal (QC) H1Z 3N5 · (514) 433-7479