Aircooled Volkswagen Pre-Road Trip Checklist

Before any longer journey, a few simple checks can make all the difference.
This checklist is designed for aircooled Volkswagen owners preparing for a road trip, show, or weekend away.

Suitable for Beetle, Split Screen, Bay Window, Type 3 & Karmann Ghia.

Engine & Fuel

_____ Engine oil level correct
_____ No fresh oil leaks visible
_____ Fan belt fitted correctly and tensioned
_____ Spare fan belt packed
_____ Fuel hoses sound, secure and ethanol-safe
_____ Fuel filter clean and correctly mounted
_____ Carburettor secure – no loose fixings
_____ Throttle cable moves freely
_____ Accelerator return spring intact

Common parts you may need:

Electrical & Ignition

_____ Battery secure and terminals tight
_____ Battery in good condition
_____ Ignition coil connections secure
_____ Points, condenser, cap and rotor checked
_____ Spare fuses packed
_____ Earth straps clean and secure
_____ Lights and indicators working
_____ Horn working

Common parts you may need:

Brakes, Steering & Suspension

_____ Brake pedal firm and responsive
_____ Brake fluid level correct
_____ No brake fluid leaks
_____ Handbrake operating correctly
_____ Steering free from excessive play
_____ Track rod ends secure
_____ Shock absorbers secure
_____ Suspension bushes visually checked

Common parts you may need:

Tyres & Wheels

_____ Tyre pressures set correctly
_____ Tyre tread depth legal
_____ Tyres free from cracks or bulges
_____ Wheel nuts torqued correctly
_____ Spare wheel inflated and usable
_____ Jack and wheel brace on board

Common parts you may need:

Tools & Spares

_____ Tool kit on board
_____ Flat & Phillips screwdrivers
_____ 10mm and 13mm spanners
_____ Pliers
_____ Electrical tape
_____ Cable ties
_____ Spare bulbs
_____ Spare ignition parts (points / condenser)
_____ Spare fan belt
_____ Engine oil for top-ups

Recommended items:

Pre-Road Trip Preparation Offer

If you’re replacing or topping up items while working through this checklist,
qualifying pre-road trip essentials automatically receive a discount at checkout when you spend £50 or more.

View the Pre-Road Trip Essentials → 

Printable Version

Prefer a printable version of this checklist?

Download the Pre-Road Trip Checklist (PDF)