I plan to visit death valley in eraly October.

many websites emphasize the need for taking water along (which I can understand), and tell you to check the status of your car, etc.

Does this still stands true around October 7th?

I think you will need water almost anytime of year in Death Valley. From the Regional Climate Center, over the last 30 years, the average daily high temperature in Death Valley on October 7 is 97 degrees. Average daily low is 65 degrees (likely at night after the sun is down). And don't expect rain; average rainfall is less than 1/10 of an inch for the entire month of October.

Sure MileKing, I knew so much from heavy Internet search for information.

What bugs me a little is all this information about taking care of the car ; watch water temp, turn off AC when driving uphill, etc

I'm not really a technical person, and I'm sure I won't be able to find the cooling water tank to pour more water into it!

I think this is most important if you are planning on taking some of the unpaved roads that lead miles away from civilzation where you could spend an entire day without seeing anyone.

But as long as you are planning on staying on the main paved roads (which most people do), even in the unlikely event that you have car trouble there will be other people around to help you.

But it's probably always a good idea to make sure your car is in good working order before taking a long road trip anywhere.

Thanks John,

I have reviewed the information I have on things to do /see in DV, and taking into consideration the short time we'll be there, we will definitely stay on paved roads!

I am not sure of the weather in early October. We have been there many times ( spent out honeymoon there at Furnace CreeK inn) but we usually go in late March or early May. The weather is nice at those times but around the end of May it does heat up. I would think that early October it still would be quite warm since the summer months are not quite over yet although it's October. There are signs posted saying to stay on the paved roads and there are water tanks for cars throughout the valley. If you head there early in the morning or late in the afternoon, your trip will be fine. I can't think of a better place to explore than Death Valley. We have enjoyed going there and found it very interesting. Be sure to see Scotty's Castle and the sand dunes. There is a gas station at Stovepipe Wells if you experience car trouble but if you have a new car and are prepared for the heat, everything will be fine.