Confidence & Peace of Mind on the Road.
Hands-on car care workshops that teach drivers how to handle real roadside situations—safely, confidently, and without panic.
RoadSense helps new drivers learn essential vehicle skills every driver should know—like changing a tire, jump-starting a battery, and understanding dashboard warning lights—in a supportive, in-person workshop led by a veteran automotive expert.
A driver’s license isn’t enough.
Passing the driving test doesn’t prepare drivers for what actually happens on the road.
A flat tire. A dead battery. A warning light. Engine Failure.
When something goes wrong, even experienced drivers can feel unsure.
RoadSense bridges that gap by teaching practical, real-world car care skills that help new drivers stay calm, safe, and prepared when the unexpected happens.
Flat Tire
Dead Battery
Warning Light
Engine Fluids
Why New & Experienced Drivers Choose RoadSense
Not just another class—real confidence that lasts.
Expert Instruction
Learn from a veteran automotive expert with over 30 years of industry experience.
Hands-On Learning
Join us to practice essential skills with expert guidance in a safe, supportive environment.
Real-World Skills
Focus on the practical skills that matter on the road, not complex mechanics.
Peace of Mind
Rest easier knowing your new driver has the confidence and ability to stay safe.
Why Parents & New Drivers Choose RoadSense
Not just another class—real confidence that lasts.
Expert Instruction
Learn from Rod Callahan, a veteran automotive professional with over 30 years of industry experience as a mechanic and service advisor.
Hands-On Learning
Participants practice real skills using real tools in a safe, supportive environment— no lectures, no intimidation.
Practical, Everyday Skills
We focus on what drivers actually face on the road—not complex mechanical repairs.
Peace of Mind for Parents
Know your teen can handle common roadside issues calmly and safely.
Get Road-Ready in 3 Simple Steps
1
Book a Workshop
Choose the course that's right for you–from our essential Basic Course to personalized 1:1 coaching
2
Learn Hands-On
Join us to practice essential skills with expert guidance in a safe, supportive environment.
3
Drive with Confidence
Leave with the practical knowledge and confidence to handle common roadside issues, giving you–and your parents–peace of mind
Give Confidence Behind the Wheel
RoadSense gift certificates can be used for any workshop or 1:1 coaching session. Perfect for teens, new drivers, or anyone who wants real-world driving confidence beyond driver’s ed.
Workshops
Practical skills. Real confidence.
RoadSense workshops give teens, new & experienced drivers hands-on experience with the everyday challenges of vehicle ownership. In a controlled workshop setting, participants learn essential skills guided step-by-step by automotive expert Rod Callahan.
🚦 Basic Course (2 Hours)
Designed for new & experienced drivers who want confidence—not confusion.
In this hands-on workshop, participants learn how to identify small issues before they become big problems—helping them stay safe and avoid unnecessary repairs.
What You’ll Learn
Tire pressure checks and basic tire care
Learn how to check and adjust tire pressures with confidence.
Engine oil and essential fluid checks
Learn when, how, and what to check under the hood.
Dashboard warning and safety lights explained
Understanding what they mean and what to do.
Exterior light checks
Learn how to spot exterior light issues quickly.
Checking all exterior lights on vehicle
How to tell if a turn signal is out, by looking at the dash lights.
Safe jump-start procedures
Learn how to jump start a vehicle safely.
How to change a flat tire using proper tools
Learn how to install spare, use jack and tools safely.
Session Details
Duration: 2 hours
Format: In-person, small group workshop
Includes: Roadside Ready Kit
Cost: $299
Why Book a Workshop?
Hands-On Confidence: Practice real car care skills with expert guidance.
Avoid Costly Repairs: Catch small issues before they become big ones.
Drive Prepared: Know what to do in common roadside situations.
Best For: Teens with a new license, college-bound students, and experienced drivers who want to be prepared for real-world situations.
🔧 1:1 Coaching
Personalized guidance from an expert you can trust.
Some drivers need extra time, extra confidence, or personalized instruction. Our 1:1 coaching sessions provide focused, hands-on support tailored to your specific needs.
With over 30 years in the automotive industry, Rod helps drivers understand not just how to do things—but why they matter.
What's Included:
One-on-one, hands-on instruction
Tire changes, jump-starts, fluid checks
“What if” roadside scenarios
Open Q&A for personal concerns or car-buying guidance
Session Details
Duration: 90 minutes
Format: In-person, 1:1 in workshop
Basic Course recommended
Cost: $200
Why Book a 1:1?
Personalized attention, tailored to your situation
Hands-on training or car-buying guidance from an expert you can trust
Confidence and peace of mind that last far beyond the session
Best for: New & experienced drivers who want extra support, parents seeking personalized instruction for their teen, or anyone who learns best with one-on-one guidance.
More courses coming soon.
Rod Callahan
30+ Years of Automotive Experience.
One Clear Mission.
Meet Your Instructor
Rod Callahan brings more than three decades of real-world automotive experience to every RoadSense workshop. He spent over 20 years as a professional mechanic, followed by 10 years as a service advisor working with trusted brands including Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Acura, Mercedes, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge.
Beyond the shop, Rod has long been the go-to resource for friends and family—helping them care for their vehicles, avoid costly mistakes, and make smart buying decisions.
As a father and entrepreneur, Rod founded RoadSense to combine his technical expertise with his passion for teaching—empowering the next generation of drivers with practical knowledge that keeps them safe on the road.
Decades of Experience With Brands You Trust
TESTIMONIALS
Parents, family & friends love RoadSense.
"Now I know my daughter won’t panic if she gets a flat tire on the highway. Rod's method is clear and empowering."
— Karen, parent of 17-year-old
Instructor - Rod Callahan
"This class gave my son confidence — and me peace of mind. Highly recommend for any new driver."
— James, parent of new driver
Instructor - Rod Callahan
Roadside Wisdom
Quick tips and essential knowledge for every driver. More coming soon!
Last updated 1/16/26
Measuring Tire Tread
By Rod Callahan – Automotive Expert (30+ years)
To check tire wear, look between the tread blocks for the raised wear bars—when the tread is level with these bars, the tire is worn out. Driving on tires at or below this level is
unsafe, especially in wet conditions.
How to Read an Oil Dipstick
By Rod Callahan – Automotive Expert (30+ years)
After wiping the dipstick clean, re-insert it fully. Pull it out again and check the level. It should be between the 'MIN' and 'MAX' marks.
Jumper Cable Connections
By Rod Callahan – Automotive Expert (30+ years)
Remember the order: red to the dead battery’s positive, red to the good battery’s positive, black to the good battery’s negative, and black to unpainted metal on the dead car.
Skills + Tools = True Confidence.
Every workshop can be paired with a RoadSense Safety Kit – everything your teen needs in one bag, built to stay in the trunk and be ready when it matters most.
Kit Includes
- 8 Foot, 10 Gauge Booster Cables w/ Instructions
- 12’ Tow Rope w/ Locking Steel Hooks (4500 lb. capacity)
- Rubberized Flashlight w/ 2 Mercury-free heavy-duty “D” Batteries
- 2 Emergency Candles
- Safety Matches
- Air Compressor
- 14” Elastic Tie-Down Cord w/ protected metal hooks
- Tire Valve Caps (4-Pack)
- Electrical Tape (⁵⁄₈” x 10’)
- 10 Cable Ties
- Foam Kneeling Pad (10” x 14”)
- 25 pc. First Aid Kit
- Emergency Water Bag (capacity 4L / 1 gallon)
- Cotton/Poly Work Gloves w/ Rubber Grip Dots
- Reusable Safety Vest
- 24-Hour Roadside Assistance ($180.00 value)
The Essentials Kit
The must-have items for any new driver. Includes jumper cables, a tire pressure gauge, a flashlight, and gloves.
Most Popular
The Roadside Ready Kit
Our most popular option. Includes everything in the Essentials Kit, plus a first-aid kit, a reflective triangle, and a multi-tool.
The Complete Kit
For total peace of mind. Includes everything from the Roadside Ready Kit, plus a portable tire inflator and an emergency poncho.
The Essentials Kit
The must-have items for any new driver. Includes jumper cables, a tire pressure gauge, a flashlight, and gloves.
Most Popular
The Roadside Ready Kit
Our most popular option. Includes everything in the Essentials Kit, plus a first-aid kit, a reflective triangle, and a multi-tool.
The Complete Kit
For total peace of mind. Includes everything from the Roadside Ready Kit, plus a portable tire inflator and an emergency poncho.
Skills + Tools = True Confidence.
Every Basic Course includes a Roadside Ready Kit, professionally curated by Rod to give new drivers reliable tools.
Each item is chosen for real-world durability and usefulness—so you leave with the knowledge and the tools to stay safe and prepared wherever you go.
STILL NOT SURE?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do parents attend the workshops too?
Our workshops are for teens only, creating an independent learning environment where new drivers can practice hands-on skills and build confidence on their own.
Q: Do participants need their own car?
No. We provide vehicles, tools, and safety gear in a professional workshop setting.
Q: Is this the same as driver’s education?
No. RoadSense is not a driving school. We focus on car care, roadside safety, and practical skills that aren’t taught in traditional driver’s ed.
Q: Do participants need to know anything about cars first?
Not at all. We start at square one and keep things clear, simple, and hands-on. We’ll make sure they leave confident and capable.
Q: Can RoadSense replace regular car maintenance?
No way. Your mechanic still matters! What we do is teach the new driver enough to know when something’s wrong, how to handle common issues.
Q: Do you offer group sessions?
Yes! We partner with schools, scout troops, and community groups for custom sessions. Contact us to learn more.
Q: Will this make my teen a mechanic?
Nope! We’re not trying to turn your kid into the next pit crew champion. RoadSense is about everyday confidence — the simple, practical skills every driver should know.
Q: What ages can attend?
RoadSense workshops are best suited for anyone who wants more confidence and peace of mind on the road.
Q: What should my teen learn beyond driver’s education?
Driver’s education teaches the rules of the road, but it often doesn’t cover what happens when something goes wrong. Beyond driver’s ed, teens should learn basic vehicle care and roadside preparedness—such as checking tire pressure, understanding dashboard warning lights, jump-starting a battery, and changing a flat tire. These skills help new drivers stay calm, make safer decisions, and handle common situations with confidence when they’re on their own.
Q: How can drivers prepare for roadside emergencies?
New & experienced drivers can prepare for roadside emergencies by learning how to recognize common vehicle issues, safely assess a situation, and take appropriate next steps. This includes understanding warning lights, knowing how to check basic fluids, using hazard lights correctly, and performing simple tasks like jump-starting a battery or installing a spare tire. Hands-on practice builds confidence and reduces panic when real situations arise.
Q: Are RoadSense workshops a replacement for a driving school?
No. RoadSense workshops are not a replacement for a driving school or driver’s education program. We do not provide behind-the-wheel instruction or teach driving techniques. Instead, RoadSense complements driver’s education by focusing on practical vehicle ownership and car care skills—helping new drivers understand their vehicle and handle common roadside situations safely and confidently.
Ready to get started? Have questions?
RoadSense workshops are currently being scheduled as we finalize new locations and partnerships with local high schools.
If you're interested in attending a future workshop, complete the form below and we'll notify you as soon as new dates are available.
We're also working with schools to offer RoadSense as an on-campus extracurricular program for students.
RoadSense
Empowering the next generation of drivers with essential car care skills. Drive safe, drive confident.
14845 SW Murray Scholls Dr. Suite 110 Beaverton OR 97007
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