Before you hit the track at Japfest 2025, Ford Fair, or Trax at Silverstone, it’s time to get your prep right. With Japfest introducing an all-new Saturday Track Day on 12th April 2025, there’s never been a better chance to unleash your car on the legendary National Circuit.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or taking on your first-ever track session, these top 10 tips will help you make the most of your day while keeping safety and fun a top priority.
New for Japfest 2025: Saturday Track Day – 12th April
Before we dive into the prep tips, here’s something you don’t want to miss! Japfest 2025 now kicks off with a full track day on Saturday 12th April. You’ll get exclusive access to the Silverstone National Circuit, the perfect warm-up ahead of Sunday’s main show.
- Track sessions: Available to all skill levels. Exclusive to Japfest attendees.
- How to book: Click here for all the details.
- Need tips on mastering the circuit? Check out our Silverstone Track Guide.
Now, let’s get you and your car prepped for the ultimate track experience!
Prepare Your Car for a Track Day
- Reduce Your Tyre Pressures
When you’re out on the track, your tyres will heat up quickly, causing the pressures to rise. To combat this, reduce your tyre pressures by a few PSI all around before you head out. This simple step ensures optimal grip and handling. But don’t forget to pump them back up before you drive home! Check out our guide to the best digital tyre pressure gauges too.
- Check All Fluids
A lack of oil, water, or brake fluid can end your track session abruptly and disastrously. Make sure all your fluid levels are topped off, and don’t forget to check your fuel gauge. High-speed driving will burn through fuel faster than you’d expect, and running out mid-session isn’t just embarrassing—it’s a safety risk.
- Dress Appropriately
You need to cover your arms and legs entirely, so pack long sleeves and full-length trousers. Proper shoes are essential too—no flip-flops allowed! The Safety Briefing will cover this, but it’s good to be prepared in advance.
- Bring Your Helmet
No helmet, no track time. If you don’t own one, helmets are available for hire on the day. Your helmet is your most crucial piece of safety gear, so make sure it’s comfortable and fits well.
- Fit Your Tow Strap/Eye
In case of an accident, marshals need to remove your car quickly. Having a tow strap or eye fitted makes their job easier and gets you off the track faster, minimising disruption for everyone.
- Clear Out Your Car
In case of an accident, marshals need to remove your car quickly. Having a tow strap or eye fitted makes their job easier and gets you off the track faster, minimising disruption for everyone.
- Display Your Passes
One of the key elements for track session prep at events. Those little bits of paper you received with your track session are your key to the track. Tape them to your windows so marshals can easily identify you. Without these, you won’t be allowed to participate.Don’t forget the tape!
- Know the Rules
Before you head out, familiarise yourself with the track rules and flag signals. Here’s a quick refresher:
Red Flag: Prepare to stop, check mirrors, slow down to about 20mph, and follow officials’ instructions.
Yellow Flag: Danger ahead, slow down significantly, and be ready to take evasive action. No overtaking.
Yellow/Red Stripes: Slippery conditions, such as oil or water on the track.
Chequered Flag: The session is over, complete the lap and exit the track.
Black Flag: Something dangerous on your car, return to the pit lane immediately.
- Remember, It’s Not a Race
This is a fun track session, not a competitive race. Keep your cool and focus on enjoying the experience. Don’t let the adrenaline rush lead to risky behavior that could endanger you or others.
- Cool Down Properly
After your session, everything in your car will be much hotter than usual. Take it easy on your cool-down lap to let your brakes, engine, and exhaust gradually return to normal temperatures. Once you’re back in the pit area, keep the engine running for a few minutes to stabilise temperatures before shutting it off. Also, avoid putting the handbrake while the brakes cool. A pair of wheel chocks are ideal to take with you for this reason.
Track Insurance
Track sessions at events like Ford Fair, Trax, and Japfest rarely have incident. But, investing in track insurance for the day gives total peace of mind should the worst happen. Specialist insurers like REIS can provide track day cover that will pay for damages to your car, whether the accident is caused by you or by someone else on the circuit hitting you. Track day policies are available for you all UK tracks including Silverstone at events from Fast Car Entertainment. Some insurance companies can even add track day cover to your exisiting policy, and it’s usually not too expensive so its worth asking about for extra peace of mind.
Enjoy Your Track Session!
By following our track session prep tips, you’ll ensure that both you and your car are ready for an exhilarating, safe, and enjoyable track session at Silverstone. Preparation is key, so take the time to get everything in order and make the most of your day on the track. Happy driving!
