How to Get Your BMW Track-Ready for the Season
Track days are one of the best ways to fully experience what your BMW is capable of. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned weekend warrior, preparing your car properly is crucial — not just for performance, but for safety and longevity too.
At CG Motorsports, we help local enthusiasts get their cars track-ready every season, and we’ve put together this essential guide on what to check, prep, and upgrade before hitting the track.
Why Track Prep Matters
Even though your BMW is built for spirited driving, a track day pushes your car harder than regular road use ever will. Prolonged high-speed cornering, heavy braking, and sustained full-throttle runs put extra stress on tires, brakes, fluids, and suspension.
A little preparation ensures you have a fun, safe, and trouble-free track day experience — and it helps prevent expensive breakdowns or avoidable issues.
Pre-Track Day Checklist
Here’s what you should inspect and prep before your next track session:
1. Tires
Your tires are your car’s only contact with the pavement — and on the track, they work overtime.
- Inspect for wear: Check tread depth and look for cracks, bubbles, or uneven wear.
- Tire pressure: Track tire pressures typically start a few PSI lower than your usual street setting to allow for heat buildup.
- Consider upgrading: If you’re chasing lap times, ultra-high-performance summer or track-focused tires make a huge difference.
2. Brakes
The track is brutal on brakes — you’ll be using them harder and more frequently than you ever would on the street.
- Inspect pads and rotors: Ensure there’s plenty of pad life left and that rotors are free of deep grooves or cracks.
- Upgrade pads: High-performance or track-specific pads offer better heat resistance and fade control.
- Brake fluid: Regular brake fluid can overheat and boil on track. Replace it with LIQUI MOLY high-performance brake fluid for excellent temperature stability.
3. Engine Fluids
Track driving generates more heat and stress than everyday use, making fresh, high-quality fluids essential.
- Engine oil: Run fresh, full-synthetic oil. We recommend LIQUI MOLY Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40 or LIQUI MOLY Synthoil Race Tech GT1 10W-60 for M cars and high-performance builds.
- Coolant: Check levels and condition, topping up as needed. LIQUI MOLY Radiator Protection products are a smart add-on for added cooling system protection under track conditions.
4. Suspension and Alignment
Your suspension keeps your car balanced and predictable on track.
- Inspect components: Check control arms, bushings, sway bar links, and shocks for signs of wear.
- Alignment check: A fresh alignment — or a more aggressive track-friendly setup — improves handling, tire wear, and overall stability.
5. Pre-Track Safety Inspection
A quick visual check isn’t enough. That’s why CG Motorsports offers professional pre-track inspections. Our experienced technicians thoroughly assess your car to ensure it’s ready to perform safely at the limit.
- Torque check all suspension and brake components
- Verify drivetrain and axle condition
- Inspect brake fluid boiling point
- Check for hidden leaks or wear in high-stress areas
- Review cooling system pressure and cap integrity
6. Safety Equipment
Even on casual track days, basic safety prep is essential to ensure a safe environment for everyone on the track.
- Check seat belts and harnesses for wear.
- Remove all loose items from the cabin and trunk.
- Make sure sunroofs are closed and secure.
- Some tracks require a helmet — check the event rules in advance.
Final Thoughts
A little prep now can save you from major headaches later. Whether you’re chasing lap times or just enjoying your car in a safe, controlled environment, making sure your BMW is properly track-ready ensures you’ll get the most out of your experience.
At CG Motorsports, we offer pre-track inspections, LIQUI MOLY fluid services, brake packages, and expert advice to get you ready for your next track day. Book your pre-season track inspection with us today and let’s make this your best track season yet.
Push limits on the track, not with your safety. Get your inspection done by the pros at CG Motorsports.
Contact CG Motorsports now to book an appointment.
