Parents' Guide to Cars on the Road

Cars on the Road TV show: Poster Image

Common Sense Media Review

Polly Conway By Polly Conway , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 6+

Zippy series has a few scares but mostly whole-family fun.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 6+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 8+

Based on 5 parent reviews

age 8+

Based on 7 kid reviews

What's the Story?

CARS ON THE ROAD begins in Radiator Springs, home of race car Lightning McQueen (voiced by Owen Wilson) and his rusty tow truck buddy Mater (Larry the Cable Guy). Mater is invited to his sister's wedding, but they don't get along. To help ease the tension, Lightning offers to take the cross-country trip along with him. The two friends find themselves in a haunted hotel, racing with tricked-out jalopies on a salt flat, and learning about dinosaurs (aka Dino-cars). These short tales (about 10 minutes each) are pleasant adventures with positive lessons found along the side of the road.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 5 ):
Kids say ( 7 ):

Kids may find themselves more interested in roadside attractions and long car trips after watching this lively, bombastic series. Cars on the Road is a treat for vehicle lovers and fans of simple, sweet storytelling. There are also a handful of positive lessons presented -- for example, Mater wishes he could be faster, but after getting a taste of the fast life with some aggressive racers on the salt flats, he learns that he's just fine with his usual speed. It's also a great watch-together show for siblings and families, with gags and fun for everyone.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about Mater and McQueen's friendship. How do such different people (ahem, cars) get along so well? Do you have friends that are different from you?

  • How do the vehicles show perseverance on their long trip across the country? What do they do when they run into obstacles?

  • Did you find any of the scenes or episodes scary? How much scary stuff is OK for little kids?

TV Details

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Cars on the Road TV show: Poster Image

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