Prepare Your Car For a Track Day – First Steps

Prepare Your Car For a Track Day

Taking your car out for a track day can be a thrilling experience, but before you hit the track, there are a few things you need to consider to ensure that your car is fit for purpose. Whether it’s your first time on the track or you’re a seasoned pro, preparing your car can make all the difference in achieving the best performance / fun factor and having a safe and enjoyable experience.

Some key things to keep in mind when preparing your car for a track day:

Servicing: Regular servicing is essential to keep your car running smoothly and prevent any unwanted breakdowns, dramas, or red flags. Before heading to the track, make sure your car has been recently serviced and that all fluids, such as oil and coolant, have been topped up or changed if necessary.

Tyres

Tyres are a crucial part of your car’s performance on the track. Make sure that your tyres are in good condition, with plenty of tread and no signs of excessive wear or damage. It’s also important to check that your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure for the track conditions.

Brakes

High-speed driving puts a lot of strain on your brakes, so it’s important to check that they are in good working order before you hit the track. Make sure that your brake pads are in good condition and consider upgrading to performance pads for better stopping power. You should also check that your brake discs are free from cracks or other damage. The same can be said for brake fluid – has it been changed recently? Motorsport brake fluids are better placed to handle the increase in temperatures that your braking system will endure on a track day.

Safety

Safety should always be a top priority when driving on the track. Before setting off, ensure that your seat belts/harnesses are in good condition, properly adjusted and secure and that your helmet is in good condition and meets the necessary safety standards. It’s also a good idea to ensure your car has a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit.

Alignment

Finally, alignment is key to achieving optimal performance on the track. Make sure that your car’s suspension and alignment are set up correctly to ensure maximum traction and stability. You should also consider getting a professional alignment done before your track day to ensure that your car is set up correctly.

Overall, preparing your car for a track day requires careful attention to detail and a willingness to invest time and money in ensuring that your car is in top condition. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your track day is both safe and enjoyable and that you get the most out of your car’s performance.

If you would like to read more about preparing for your first trackday, we thoroughly recommend that you take a look at the very handy publication from our friends over at CAT Driver Training – Your Track Day Guide