Blog

Raise your hand if you’re ready for a road trip vacation.

Yeah, us too!  Like many home-bound Iowans, we’ve been dreaming of the day when we can safely hit the road for a well-deserved break from the daily grind. So, whether you decide to take a quick getaway or a cross-country road trip, Hilltop Tire Service is here to help! Here is a DIY Guide to prepping your vehicle for the long haul. Now, of course, if don’t have time, we offer a FREE Road Trip Inspection for all our valued customers!

Tip: Set aside time for a pre-trip inspection of your vehicle a week or two before you plan to leave. You don’t want to postpone your excursion if you need to leave your vehicle at the shop for a day.

1. Inspect the tires – Over time, tires will gradually lose air pressure, so check the air pressure in each tire, including the spare tire. While you are checking the air pressure, do a visual of your tires. Look for uneven tread wear, bulges, punctures, or any tire damage. Check the tread depth with the penny test. If you notice any tire damage or are unsure, bring your vehicle over to the nearest Hilltop Tire Service center and we’ll be happy to assist you.

2. Test the Wiper Blades & Windshield Washer Fluid Level – Overtime rubber windshield wipers break down and need replacing, typically every 6 months. Even if the blades are new, it’s recommended to wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove any residue and ensure your vision is clear to see the sights. Now is also a good time to check the windshield washer fluid level and top up the tank if needed.

3. Check the A/C and Heater – Even if it's hot outside, you’ll still want to make sure your heating and air conditioning system is working properly. Test the air conditioning, heater, and defroster to make sure they are working as they should.

4. Inspect the Brakes – Brakes are a very important part of your vehicle. Whether you’re in stop-and-go traffic or you need to slow down for an animal crossing, you need good brakes to keep you and your family safe on the trip. If you have noticed your brakes squealing or grinding, bring your vehicle to Hilltop Tire Service for a brake inspection.

5. Test the Battery – Have you had a new battery installed recently? If you’re driving around with a battery that is at least 2 years old, we recommend getting it tested. Stop by any Hilltop Tire Service location for a complimentary battery test before you hit the road. Also visually check the battery and cables to ensure they are attached properly and free of corrosion.

6. Check the Maintenance Schedule – All vehicle manufacturers set out a recommended maintenance schedule stating what maintenance services your vehicle needs and how often. If you are going to go over a service mileage milestone mid-trip, we recommended getting that service done before you leave. Common maintenance items are oil change, lube and filter, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, fluid flushes, and air filters. This is also a good time to address any illuminated dashboard lights. That pesky light that won’t go away could cause big problems on a long trip.

7. Prepare an Emergency Kit – You probably already have an emergency kit stashed away somewhere in your car, but if not, now is a great time to put one together. Your emergency kit should include (but not limited to) a first aid kit, drinking water, non-perishable food, flashlight, jumper cables, and few basic tools.

8. Make sure your records are up to date – You should always keep a copy of your vehicle’s insurance, registration, warranty, and any other important documents in the glove box. Ensure you have everything you need and that all documents are up to date before you hit the road.

Most of these items, you can take care of on your own, but if you don’t have time for a DIY, bring your vehicle to Hilltop Tire Service. We offer a FREE 21-point vehicle inspection that catches most maintenance issues. As always, we want you and your family safe without breaking the pocketbook. You can trust our trained technicians to carefully inspect your vehicle and let you know of any recommended services. If your vehicle is in great shape, we’ll tell you that too!