By Daren Foertsch

There’s nothing like pushing your car to the limit in a safe, controlled environment with other enthusiasts who get it. But before you hit that apex or bang through a chicane, you’ll want to make sure you—and your ride are ready for the challenge. Whether you're running a street car on a test-and-tune night or finally giving that full bolt-on build a proper shakedown, here’s what you need for your first track day.

Safety First—For You and the Car

Let’s start with the essentials: you’ll need a DOT-approved helmet (usually Snell SA2020 or similar, depending on the track’s rules). Don’t cheap out, your head’s worth protecting. Some tracks offer rentals, but if you’re planning more than one event, it’s worth buying your own.

For the car, check the basic safety boxes:

• No leaks. Not oil, not coolant, not power steering fluid. Leaks will get you a black flag.
  

• Good brakes. Pads should have plenty of life left. Fresh brake fluid (ideally DOT 4 or higher) is a big plus.
  

• Tight lug nuts. Torque 'em down to spec before every session.
  

• Battery secure. Can’t stress this enough—loose batteries are a hazard.
  

• Seat belts in good condition. If you're running harnesses, make sure they’re mounted correctly.
  

Tire Check and Pressure Setup

Your tires are going to take a beating. Inspect them for uneven wear, sidewall damage, or cords showing. If you're running summer performance tires, make sure they have enough tread. For track use, tire pressure matters—start a few PSI higher than you would on the street, and bring a gauge to adjust between sessions. Hot tires behave differently, and dialing in pressure can make a big difference in feel and grip.

Suspension and Alignment

A dialed suspension setup makes a world of difference on the track. You don’t need full coilovers right away, but you do want something that can handle spirited driving. Quality lowering springs, upgraded sway bars, or adjustable dampers can help keep the car planted in corners.

Also: Get an alignment. If your car pulls, wanders, or feels sketchy under braking, get it fixed before you show up. Aggressive track alignments (more negative camber, a bit of toe-out up front) can help if you're serious, but a clean street alignment is fine for your first day.

Fluids, Cooling, and Maintenance

Before heading out:

• Top off your oil and bring a quart with you just in case.
  

• Check your coolant and ensure the car is running at a proper temp.
  

• Bleed the brakes if it’s been more than a year—or if you’re unsure when they were last serviced.
  

• Power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and differential fluid should all be up to snuff.
  

Track days are hard on cars. If you’ve been putting off maintenance, now’s the time to catch up.

Tools and Spare Parts

Even on a basic track day, a small kit can save your session:

• Torque wrench and sockets (especially for lug nuts)
  

• Tire pressure gauge
  

• Jack and jack stands
  

• Extra oil, brake fluid, and coolant
  

• Zip ties and duct tape—seriously, they fix more than you’d think
  

• A basic tool kit (wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, etc.)
  

• Folding chair, water, snacks, and sunscreen—you’ll thank yourself
  
  

Driver Prep and Mindset

Here’s the part most people skip over: prepare yourself. Track driving is a physical and mental workout. Hydrate, get a good night’s sleep, and don’t show up hungover or hyped up on energy drinks. Stay smooth and drive within your limits. Let the car, and yourself build up gradually.

Also: listen to the instructors. Most beginner track events pair you with a coach or run classroom-style sessions. The fastest guys out there aren’t the ones who try to impress; they’re the ones who listen, learn, and get faster each lap.

Aftermarket Gear That Helps

At Legends Auto Parts, we carry performance parts that actually make a difference at the track:

• High-temp brake pads and stainless steel brake lines – Better stopping power and a firmer pedal feel under repeated hard braking.
  

• Strut bars, sway bars, and chassis braces – These upgrades help tighten up body roll and improve turn-in, making your car feel more predictable through corners.
  

• Track-ready coilovers – For serious control, adjustability, and improved balance, a proper coilover setup is hard to beat.
  

• Lightweight wheels – Reduce unsprung weight and rotational mass to improve cornering response and acceleration without sacrificing strength.
  

• Tuning solutions – A proper tune can optimize your air/fuel ratios, sharpen throttle response, and safely unlock horsepower that’s otherwise left on the table.
  

• Performance exhaust systems – Free up backpressure, add a more aggressive tone, and improve overall engine breathing—especially when paired with tuning.
  
  

Want a track setup that works as hard as you do? Reach out—we’ll help you dial in a package that makes sense for your driving goals and your budget.

Your first track day is going to be one of the most fun things you’ve ever done in a car. It’s addicting. Prepare well, bring the essentials, and treat it as a learning experience. The speed will come with seat time. And when you’re ready to take your setup to the next level, Legends Auto Parts has your back with the upgrades to make your ride Legendary!