Why We Made This Guide

Track days are the best way to explore your car’s potential—safely and legally. This guide condenses years of experience and enthusiast know-how into clear, actionable advice so you can focus on learning and driving with confidence.

1. Two Weeks Out: Prep & Inspection

Brakes

  • Pads: at least 50% life remaining; bring a spare front set.
  • Rotors: inspect for cracks or lips; measure vs. minimum spec.
  • Fluid: flush with fresh high-temp DOT 4; bleed again after day 1 if the pedal feels long.

Tires & Wheels

  • Tires: minimum 6/32" tread; no cords, bubbles, or plugs.
  • Torque wheels cold using a torque wrench in a star pattern.
  • Recheck torque only when the wheels are cool.

Fluids & Underhood

  • Oil at max mark; check for leaks.
  • Top up coolant, power steering, and brake fluid.
  • Inspect belts and hoses for cracks.
  • Battery must be secured properly.

Chassis & Safety

  • Tighten seats and belts.
  • Remove loose interior items.
  • Confirm tow hook access and availability.

Paperwork

  • Complete your organizer's tech form (NASA, SCCA, etc.).
  • Confirm registration and track insurance if applicable.

2. Personal Gear: What to Bring

Helmet

  • Must meet Snell SA2020 or SA2025 certification.

Clothing

  • Long pants, long-sleeve cotton shirt, and closed-toe shoes with thin soles.

Essentials

  • Torque wrench, socket for lugs, tire pressure gauge, and basic tools.
  • Fluids (oil, brake fluid), funnel, towels.
  • Jack, stands, wheel chocks, spare pads.
  • Cooler with water/electrolytes, snacks, sunscreen, and tape for car numbers.

3. Flag Meanings (Memorize These)

  • Green: Track clear, session active.
  • Yellow (standing): Caution ahead, no passing.
  • Yellow (waving): Immediate hazard.
  • Blue: Faster car approaching—give a point-by.
  • Red: Session stopped—slow down safely.
  • Black: Come to pit lane for discussion.
  • Yellow/Red Striped: Slippery surface.

4. Tire Pressures: A Reliable Routine

  • Start about +6–8 psi higher than street pressures.
  • Measure hot after session 1; adjust for even tread wear.
  • Bleed off excess pressure as needed; recheck as temps change.

5. At the Track: Routine Per Session

Before Grid

  • Remove floor mats, loose items.
  • Torque wheels cold.
  • Check pressures and fuel (keep above half tank).

On Track

  • Warm up brakes and tires gradually.
  • Check mirrors on every straight.
  • Give early point-bys; stay predictable.

Cooldown Lap

  • Ease off throttle and brakes.
  • Don’t use parking brake after stopping.
  • Open hood to vent heat.

6. Managing Heat, Fuel, and Brakes

  • Start each session with at least half a tank.
  • Pit immediately if the brake pedal lengthens.
  • Never torque wheels when hot.
  • After a hot session, roll car slightly before stopping to avoid pad imprinting.

7. Passing & Etiquette

  • Use proper point-bys in designated zones.
  • Stay on line while letting faster cars by.
  • Never block or defend; this isn’t racing.
  • Check mirrors often.

8. First-Timer Focus Plan

  1. Session 1: Learn layout, flags, and pit etiquette.
  2. Session 2: Work on smooth lines and braking points.
  3. Session 3: Improve throttle control and corner exits.
  4. Session 4: Link your best corners together.

Focus on technique, not lap time. Smooth is fast.

9. Data, Cameras & Learning

  • Mount cameras securely and below roofline.
  • Don’t rely on predictive timers mid-corner.
  • Prioritize coaching—a 20-minute session with an instructor beats hours of solo laps.

10. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overheating street pads.
  • Chasing lap times before consistency.
  • Over-inflated tires.
  • Retorquing hot wheels.
  • Ignoring blue flags.

11. Quick Checklist (Print This)

Car

  • High-temp brake fluid & 50%+ pads
  • Good tires & proper PSI
  • Wheels torqued cold
  • No leaks, secure battery
  • Tow hook and numbers ready

Gear

  • Helmet (SA2020 or SA2025)
  • Proper clothing & shoes
  • Tools, fluids, tire gauge
  • Water, snacks, sunscreen

Knowledge

  • Flag meanings memorized
  • Passing rules understood

12. After the Event

  • Inspect pads, rotors, and tire shoulders.
  • Rotate wheels if needed.
  • Review video or data for one takeaway.
  • Re-torque wheels cold before leaving.

13. FAQ

Q: What tire pressures should I start with?

A: Add 6–8 psi cold, adjust for even hot wear.

Q: Can I use my street helmet?

A: Only if it meets Snell SA2020/SA2025; motorcycle (M) ratings often not accepted.

Q: Do I need track insurance?

A: Not required, but strongly recommended. Most standard policies don’t cover on-track incidents.

Final Word

Track days are the best classroom your car will ever have. Prepare properly, drive respectfully, and you’ll improve with every lap. The more you invest in safety and preparation, the more rewarding the experience becomes.

Welcome to the paddock—we’ll see you on track.

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