Don't Get Stranded: A Pre-Trip Inspection for Driving Over the Cascades

A drive from Eugene over the Cascade Mountains is a classic Oregon experience. Whether you're heading to Bend for the weekend or through Santiam Pass for a camping trip, the change in landscape and climate is dramatic. This journey also places unique demands on your vehicle. A small issue that's a minor inconvenience in the Willamette Valley can become a major problem on a remote mountain pass.

At Action Automotive, we want your trips to be memorable for the right reasons. A thorough pre-trip inspection can mean the difference between a smooth adventure and a stressful roadside emergency. Here is a checklist to complete before you point your car east.

1. Check Your Cooling System

Mountain driving means long, steep grades. This puts extra load on your engine, causing it to run hotter than it does on flat Eugene streets.

Coolant Level and Condition: Check the coolant level in the overflow reservoir when the engine is cold. The fluid should be between the “min” and “max” lines. Also, check its color; it should be bright (typically green, orange, or yellow), not rusty or muddy.
Radiator and Hoses: Look for any visible cracks, bulges, or soft spots in the upper and lower radiator hoses. A failing hose can burst under increased engine pressure.
Consider a System Flush: If it has been over five years or 60,000 miles since your cooling system was serviced, the antifreeze’s corrosion inhibitors may be depleted. A flush and fill can prevent overheating.

2. Verify Your Tire Condition and Pressure

Your tires are your direct connection to the road, and mountain conditions are unpredictable.

Tread Depth: Check your tread depth. Worn tires are dangerous on wet mountain roads and provide little grip in unexpected snow. Ensure you have more than the legal minimum of 2/32 of an inch; 4/32 of an inch is a safer benchmark.
Tire Pressure: Check all tire pressures, including your spare, when the tires are cold. Remember, as you gain elevation, the air pressure in your tires will increase slightly. Start with the pressure recommended on the sticker inside your driver’s side door jamb.
Spare Tire and Jack: Confirm your spare tire is properly inflated and that you have all the necessary tools to change a tire. There is no worse time to find a flat spare than on the side of a mountain highway.

3. Test Your Battery's Strength

A weak battery might start your car in your Eugene garage but fail in the colder temperatures at higher elevations.

Age Check: Most car batteries last 3–5 years. If yours is in this window, have it tested. Cold mornings at a 4,000-foot pass can reduce a battery’s starting power by half.
Clean Terminals: Check for any white or bluish corrosive powder on the battery terminals. This corrosion interferes with the electrical connection.

4. Inspect Your Brakes

You will rely on your brakes heavily during the descent. What goes up must come down, and controlling your speed on the way down is critical.

Listen for Noises: Pay attention for any new grinding, squealing, or scraping sounds when you brake around town.
Feel for Vibrations: Notice if the steering wheel or brake pedal shudders when you apply pressure. This can indicate warped rotors, a problem magnified on long downhill stretches.

Check Fluid: Look at the brake fluid level in the master cylinder. If it is low, it could be a sign of worn brake pads.

5. Pack a Mountain-Specific Emergency Kit

Beyond a standard kit, add items for mountain travel.

Traction Aid: Keep a bag of sand or cat litter in your trunk. It can be poured under a spinning tire for traction if you get stuck in snow or mud.
Warmth: Pack extra blankets, warm clothing, and gloves for every passenger.
Food and Water: Have non-perishable snacks and bottled water.
Light and Communication: A headlamp frees up your hands, and a portable phone charger is essential if you need to call for help.

Let Action Automotive Give You Peace of Mind

A visual check is a great start, but a professional inspection can find problems you might miss. The team at Action Automotive can perform a comprehensive Pre-Trip Safety Check. We will examine your cooling system, test your battery and charging system, inspect your brakes, and ensure your vehicle is ready for the demands of mountain driving.

A little preparation ensures your focus stays on the beautiful scenery, not on your dashboard warning lights.

Planning a trip over the Cascades? Schedule your Pre-Trip Inspection at Action Automotive in Eugene. Call us at (541) 209-6023. Drive with confidence, knowing your car is ready for the journey.