Harlem Ave - Bridgeview
(708) 599-0900 9200 S. Harlem Ave. Bridgeview, IL 60455
Monday-Saturday 8:00AM - 5:00PM
We open at 7am for vehicle drop-off. Service starts at 8am.
Archer Ave - Chicago
(773) 767-6800 5301 S Archer Ave. Chicago, IL 60632
Monday-Saturday 8:00AM - 5:00PM
We open at 7am for vehicle drop-off. Service starts at 8am.
W. 171st Street - Tinley Park
(708) 614-1700 7121 W 171st St. Tinley Park, IL 60477
Monday-Saturday 8:00AM - 5:00PM
We open at 7am for vehicle drop-off. Service starts at 8am.
[GEOTITLE] [GEOADDRESSONE] [GEOADDRESSTWO] [GEOPHONE] Directions
Store Hours [GEOHOURSMONDAY] [GEOHOURSTUESDAY] [GEOHOURSWEDNSDAY] [GEOHOURSTHURSDAY] [GEOHOURSFRIDAY] [GEOHOURSSATURDAY] [GEOHOURSSUNDAY]
Current Locations
[GEOTITLE] [GEOADDRESSONE] [GEOADDRESSTWO] [GEOPHONE] | Directions
Store Hours [GEOHOURSMONDAY] [GEOHOURSTUESDAY] [GEOHOURSWEDNSDAY] [GEOHOURSTHURSDAY] [GEOHOURSFRIDAY] [GEOHOURSSATURDAY] [GEOHOURSSUNDAY]
Go

News

04

Vehicle Summer Road Trip Checklist

posted on
Vehicle Summer Road Trip Checklist

The Ultimate Summer Road Trip Vehicle Checklist

Are you gearing up for an exciting road trip before the end of the summer season? Before you hit the open road and create lasting memories, it's crucial to ensure your vehicle is in top shape. This comprehensive summer road trip checklist will help you prepare for a safe, comfortable, and worry-free journey.

Safety First: Essential Vehicle Checks

The cornerstone of any successful road trip is a well-maintained vehicle. Before embarking on your adventure, make sure to:

  1. Get a full service tune-up, including:
    • Oil change and filter replacement
    • Coolant inspection
    • Brake inspection
    • Transmission fluid inspection
    • Power steering fluid inspection
    • Battery inspection
    • Belts and hoses inspection
    • Air, fuel, and cabin filters inspection
    • Light inspection (including headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights)
    • Tire rotation
    • Wheel alignment
  2. Have your tires checked (including the spare tire).
  3. Ensure you have all the proper equipment to change a flat tire.
  4. Replace your windshield wipers if needed.

Completing these tasks on your road trip travel checklist will reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns and help ensure a smooth journey.

Pack for Road Trip Emergencies

Even with a well-maintained vehicle, it's important to be prepared for the unexpected. Include these items on your packing list before starting a long road trip:

  1. First-aid kit containing:
    • Bandages of various sizes
    • Gauze
    • Antiseptic wipes
    • Pain relievers
    • Prescription medications
    • Tweezers and scissors
    • Medical tape
    • Antibiotic ointment
  2. Roadside emergency kit including:
    • Flashlight with extra batteries
    • Jumper cables
    • Portable jump starter
    • Tire pressure gauge
    • Phone charger
    • Basic tool kit
    • Duct tape
    • Reflective triangles or flares
    • Blanket or sleeping bag
    • Extra shoes
    • Canned foods/non-perishable foods, such as trail mix or canned fruit (plus a can opener and cutlery)
    • Bottled water for drinking
    • Distilled water for the radiator
    • Paper road map and compass
    • Contact information for emergency contacts
    • Copy of your driver's license and ID

Plan Your Route

A well-planned route can make your summer road trip safer and more enjoyable. Consider these tips:

  1. Use a reliable navigation app or GPS to plot your course.
  2. Locate gas stations, rest stops, and hotels you'll pass along the way.
  3. Share your itinerary with a friend or family member for extra safety.
  4. Plan for alternate routes in case of unexpected road closures or traffic.

Prioritize Your Comfort

Long hours on the road can be taxing, so prioritize comfort by doing the following:

  1. Pack the road trip essentials, like plenty of snacks and water.
  2. Bring entertainment options for passengers (such as books, games, or tablets).
  3. Take regular breaks to stretch your legs and fuel up at gas stations.
  4. If you're planning on a long drive, decide where you're going to spend the night ahead of time. You can book hotel reservations along your route days in advance.

Protect Your Connectivity

In today's digital age, staying connected after you hit the road is crucial:

  1. Bring car chargers and power banks for your devices.
  2. Consider a mobile hotspot for reliable internet access.
  3. Download offline maps in case of poor signal areas.

By following this comprehensive road trip checklist, you'll be ready for your summer adventure. Don't forget, the key to a successful road trip lies in thorough preparation and vehicle maintenance.

Before you embark on your journey, the team at VIP Tire can help make sure you're fully prepared. Visit one of our three locations for an inspection and tune-up service!

Contact Us

Don't let vehicle issues derail your plans. Contact VIP Tire in Chicago, Bridgeview, or Tinley Park, IL, and let our team give you the peace of mind you need. For four decades, VIP Tire has been providing full-service automotive repairs and vehicle maintenance. You can count on our skilled technicians to ensure your vehicle is road-trip ready!

Categories: | Tags: | View Count: (49) | Return
Tire Service Blog

Chicago, Bridgeview, & Tinley Park Auto Repair

Auto Repair Services and Vehicle Maintenance You Can Rely On If your car is older, used, or even brand new, the best way to keep it in shape is to take it to your mechanic for tune-ups and regular maintenance services. From oil changes, to braking system checks and wheel alignments, providing tho...

Read More


Written on Friday, May 5, 2023 by Kris Manzu
Permalink |

Axle Repair and Inspections at VIP Tire

Auto Repairs in Tinley Park, IL - CV Axle Inspection Services at VIP Tire The CV axle is a drive axle, designed to deliver consistent power to a vehicle’s wheels while supporting the weight of the vehicle. The CV axle is located between the drive wheels and attached to them by outer CV join...

Read More


Written on Friday, May 5, 2023 by Kris Manzu
Permalink |

Driveshaft Balancing in Chicago | Vip Tire Corp dba Wilrae

In order to operate safely and efficiently, your driveshaft must be balanced, just like your tires.  If you think your driveshaft needs balancing, you can rely on the team at Vip Tire Corp dba Wilrae to provide the quality service you need. We’ve been helping Chicago drivers with auto ...

Read More


Written on Friday, May 5, 2023 by Kris Manzu
Permalink |

Motorcycle Tires in Chicago, IL from VIP Tires

Why Driving on Good Tires is Important Your motorcycle is a vehicle that relies on numerous components and parts to produce substantial power. It also relies entirely on just two tires to keep you balanced on the pavement. Unlike a car or truck, which has four tires, if even one of your bike&r...

Read More


Written on Friday, May 5, 2023 by Kris Manzu
Permalink |

Driveshaft Repairs & CV Joint Replacement in Chicago 

Driveshaft Repairs & CV Joint Replacement in Chicago CV Joint Replacement Services Your vehicle’s transmission is connected to the wheels by CV axles and the CV joints that are part of... read more

Written on Monday, September 19, 2022 by Kris Manzu
In: | Comments: 0

CV Axle Boot Replacement Services at VIP Tire 

CV Axle Boot Replacement Services at VIP Tire CV Boots - Replacement Services in Chicago CV boots are an important part of your wheel drive system. Without them, friction will quickly wear o... read more

Written on Tuesday, September 13, 2022 by Kris Manzu
In: | Comments: 0

Synthetic Oil VS Conventional Oil - Which is Better?

You may have asked yourself, which type of oil should I put in my vehicle when it's time for an oil change? Well, there are a couple options- synthetic oil, synthetic blends, and conventional oil, but the question of which type you should choose is not as complicated as it might seem. . .

Read More


Written on Tuesday, August 23, 2022 by Kris Manzu
Permalink |

CV Axle Replacement 

CV Axle Replacement Services at VIP Tire The Basics - What are CV Axles CV axles are a part of the CV axle assembly, which includes the axle, the axle shaft, CV joints, and CV boots. This assemb... read more

Written on Friday, May 20, 2022 by Kris Manzu
In: | Comments: 0

Axle, CV Joint, and Driveshaft Repair 

Auto Repair in Bridgeview & the Surrounding Areas Axle, CV Joint, and Driveshaft Repair at VIP Tire We have all heard of getting our oil changed, rotating tires, wheel alignments, and br... read more

Written on Friday, May 20, 2022 by Kris Manzu
In: | Comments: 0

Vehicle Warning Lights 

Auto Repair Shop in Bridgeview, IL - Warning Lights What Do the Warning Lights on Your Car’s Dashboard Mean? When something is wrong with a vehicle, usually a little warning light pops u... read more

Written on Friday, May 20, 2022 by Kris Manzu
In: | Comments: 0

Tire Balancing VS Alignment - The Difference 

Wheel and Tire Services from VIP Tire The difference between wheel alignment and tire balancing can be difficult to distinguish. Both are important maintenance services that help keep your vehicle ... read more

Written on Thursday, March 3, 2022 by Kris Manzu
In: | Comments: 0

Axle Repair and Inspections at VIP Tire 

Auto Repairs in Tinley Park, IL - CV Axle Inspection Services at VIP Tire The CV axle is a drive axle, designed to deliver consistent power to a vehicle’s wheels while supporting the weight o... read more

Written on Thursday, March 3, 2022 by Kris Manzu
In: | Comments: 0

How to Keep Your Car Running After 100,000 Miles 

VIP Tire - Oct./Nov. ‘21 - How to Keep Your Car Running After 100,000 Miles Client: VIP Tire SEMRush Score:9.3 Content Type: Long Blog ... read more

Written on Thursday, December 9, 2021 by Kris Manzu
In: | Comments: 0

Gas Saving Tips for Winter Driving 

VIP Tire - Sept. ‘21 - Gas Saving Tips for Winter Driving Client: VIP Tire SEMRush Score:++ Content Type: Blog Target Keywords... read more

Written on Wednesday, December 8, 2021 by Kris Manzu
In: | Comments: 0

VIP Tire - July/Aug. ‘21 - Benefits of Vehicle Maintenance 

VIP Tire - July/Aug. ‘21 - Benefits of Vehicle Maintenance - Auto Repair in Mokena, IL Client: VIP Tire SEMRush Score:++ Content Type: Lon... read more

Written on Thursday, October 28, 2021 by Kris Manzu
In: | Comments: 0

Wilrae Inc. - July/Aug. ‘21 - When To Repair Brakes 

Wilrae Inc. - July/Aug. ‘21 - When To Repair Brakes Client: Wilrae Inc. SEMRush Score:++ Content Type: Long Blog Target Keywor... read more

Written on Thursday, October 28, 2021 by Kris Manzu
In: | Comments: 0

Signs Your Car Needs an Exhaust System Repair 

Your exhaust system is responsible for guiding reaction emissions away from the engine and occupants in your vehicle. When the exhaust system on a car is in need of repair, there are a number of signs... read more

Written on Friday, July 9, 2021 by Kris Manzu
In: | Comments: 0

Why New Tires are the Smarter Purchase 

New VS Used Tires Good tires are vital to driving safely and responsibly on the road. Worn tires can lead to fewer miles to the gallon, hydroplaning, accidents, blow outs, and unexpected flats. Hav... read more

Written on Monday, May 24, 2021 by Kris Manzu
In: | Comments: 0

Spring Tire Alignment After A Harsh Winter

Does Your Car Need An Alignment After Winter? An alignment is the adjustment of your vehicle's suspension to facilitate better handling, even tire wear, and performance. An alignment is recommended once or twice a year, depending on the vehicle and how much wear and tear is put on it by the d...

Read More


Written on Tuesday, March 16, 2021 by Kris Manzu
Permalink |

Shop for Discount Auto Tires at a Tire Shop Near Me

Shop for Discount Auto Tires at a Tire Shop Near Me Do you need new tires but you’re tired of getting the runaround from the nearby auto shop? Look no further than VIP Tire. As Chicago’s best tire dealer, helping customers find high-quality, discounted tires is our number one priority...

Read More


Written on Wednesday, July 24, 2019 by Kris Manzu
Permalink |

Maintaining a Healthy Tire Life

Maintaining a Healthy Tire Life Tires that are operating below normal inflation standards can put your car, as well as those who are riding in it, at risk. Checking the tire pressure in your vehicle should be a priority to maintain the life of the tire and to get the best overall performance from...

Read More


Written on Wednesday, July 24, 2019 by Kris Manzu
Permalink |

Why Taking Care of Your Cooling System Is Important

Why Taking Care of Your Cooling System Is Important Maintaining your car’s internal temperature is important because if your car overheats, not only can it cause damage to various parts of your car, but it can cost a tremendous amount of time and money to fix. This is why our expert mechani...

Read More


Written on Wednesday, July 24, 2019 by Kris Manzu
Permalink |

What Is Wheel Balancing?

What Is Wheel Balancing? Wheel balancing is the process of maintaining the balance between the weight of a tire and the weight of a wheel assembly. For any car or truck to travel evenly at high speeds, the weight distribution of the tire-wheel unit must be equal. Because no manufacturer can make ...

Read More


Written on Wednesday, July 24, 2019 by Kris Manzu
Permalink |

VIP Tire Launches New Website

Located at 5301 South Archer Ave. in Chicago, IL; 7121 West 171st St. in Tinley Park, IL; and 9200 S. Harlem Ave. in Bridgeview, IL. VIP Tire services the automotive repair, tire, and wheel needs of those in Chicago, IL, Bridgeview, IL, Tinley Park, IL, Orland Park, IL, and other surrounding ar...

Read More


Written on Monday, August 12, 2013 by Kris Manzu
Permalink |

Contact Us VIP Tire

Stay Connected

Contact Us

Phone: (773) 767-6800
Fax: (773) 767-3394
Address: 5301 S Archer Ave.
Chicago, IL 60632
Phone: (708) 614-1700
Fax: (708) 614-8009
Address: 7121 W 171st St.
Tinley Park, IL 60477
Phone: (708) 599-0900
Fax: (708) 233-6364
Address: 9200 S. Harlem Ave.
Bridgeview, IL 60455

Connect With Us

Powered by Net Driven
Login