Car Preparation

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The engine, tyres, suspension and brakes will work much harder on track than on the road. The elevated temperatures will give your engines cooling system a real workout and the brakes and tyres will behave very differently. Ultimately the condition of the car will determine its limits and ability to complete the day without issue.

Assuming your car gets serviced and the fluids changed accordingly, her'e a straightforward list of checks to help ensure your cars ready before the event. 


If in doubt take your car to a reputable garage.


Checklist

Safety
  • Check for leaking fluids on the underside. Be sure there's no dampness on the sump even if nothing is dripping
  • Check seatbelts and make sure there are no loose items in the car, particularly under the seats

Engine/Transmission
  • Check the oil and water levels
  • Check any drivebelts for cuts, cracks and splits. Replace them if at all in doubt 
  • Check the exhaust system is secure and not leaking

Cooling
  • Check radiators and pressure caps for leaks
  • Remove any leaves and debris from the front grills that may prevent efficient radiator cooling

Brakes
  • Check your brake discs are in good condition and within their wear limits, especially the inner faces which always wear quicker than the outside
  • For drilled discs clean out any blocked holes and check for cracks, they typically radiate from the holes (cracks of 3-5mm long are usually ok)
  • Check your brake pads have at least 6mm of friction material to last the day, especially the inner pads which always wear quicker. Less than 6mm may wear out and will probably overheat and create braking problems
  • Check your brake pedal has a firm feel under heavy braking. If not you need to bleed/replace the brake fluid

Tyres
  • Check your tyres have even tread across the full tyre and have at least 3-4mm tread
  • Check your tyres are in good condition and balanced properly. Pay attention to cuts, splits, irregular bumps in the sidewalls

Suspension
  • Check the steering for excessive free play or clonking as you turn lock to lock
  • Check rubber gaiters, boots and shock absorbers for leaks
  • Check wheelnuts/bolts are correctly torqued up