iamzatch

Going to the track on my birthday coming up for just a basic open lapping day.

What are the basic things I should prep for (thinking: brake fluid etc.)?

artdohc

Make sure tires have good wear left. Properly inflated, nitrogen preferred.
Bring a tire pressure gauge, you'll be letting air out as the tires heat up.
Make sure you don't need a helmet or racing shoes (some places require them)
Make sure the car is in good working order to pass tech inspection, all fluids topped off, & a good amount of brake pad available.
Remove any unnecessary weight or stuff that might flop around.

That pretty much covers what you absolutely need.

Good next steps:
Better brake fluid.
Upgraded tires.
Better brake pads.

Beyond that, stuff gets expensive.

outceltj

Remember to turn off traction control, no air conditioning when your running b/c you will drip water on the track and that's a no no, go around water box if your using stock tires, do a small burn out on dry pavement to clean tires, Do not shift into overdrive when your running. Press the go pedal when the second light lights up. and then just enjoy.

If your going to a 1/4 mile track

whosniffedme

New brakes, suspension, some motorwork, a tune, new tires, wheels, pretty much just replace everything. Getting a nice track set up takes time and money.

JThor

Since you are saying "lapping day", I assume you are doing a road track. If you are new to the sport, I would do a club event such as a NASA HPDE. The reason is that you will be paired up with an instructor and will be taught the basics of high performance driving. It will be a much better experience (and safer) than just going onto the track and trying to figure it out yourself.

As far as car prep, just make sure everything is in serviceable condition. Make sure the tires are in good shape, the brake pads have at least 50% left on them. Since your car is a 2014, you probably don't have to worry so much about worn parts.

The Motorcraft brake fluid that comes stock in the car is pretty good. It will be fine for a first time event. If you decide you like the sport, you will probably upgrade to ATE or MOTUL racing fluid. No need to upgrade now. Your car as it is will be much more capable than you are right now. You only need to upgrade when your abilities match the car.

Check on the rules about helmets. Some events have loaners, some don't. Even if they let you do it, don't go out on the track without a helmet.

Otherwise, have fun and write about your experience here!

EDIT: I noticed you live in Colorado. I am involved with several of the clubs locally including SCCA and PCA. PM me and I will be glad to help you get headed in the right direction. It's a fun sport with great people here locally.