In Colorado, there’s always a reason to head into the mountains to celebrate. The start of summer. The end of summer. The start of hiking season. The beginning of the skiing season. The end of school.
No matter what you’re about to celebrate, you might be thinking about heading into the hills. Why not? The Rockies are truly a place to relax, rewind, and recover.
So don’t add to your stress by having your car break down on the way to your celebration. Prepare your vehicle before your road trip. Choose to have a car inspection to ensure your car is in good condition to make the journey.
Why Choose Inspection Before You Hit The Roads
There’s nothing quite like a mountain escape. Fresh air, winding roads, and views that make the drive worth it. But if you’re headed into Colorado’s high country, your vehicle needs more than just a full tank of gas.
Mountain driving puts unique demands on your car. From steep climbs and rapid altitude shifts to unpredictable weather and limited services, your vehicle needs to be ready for it all.
Where do you start?
Check Your Brakes—Then Check Them Again
Mountains are hard on brakes. Long downhill descents generate heat that can lead to brake fade, a dangerous situation where your brakes lose effectiveness.
Before heading out, make sure:
- Brake pads have plenty of life left
- Rotors aren’t warped or worn
- Brake fluid is topped off and clean
- Your parking brake is functioning
If your brakes have been squealing or grinding, don’t wait. Get them inspected by a mechanic before your trip.
Pro Tip: Downshift instead of riding your brakes on long descents. Let the engine do some of the work.
Test the Battery’s Strength
Cold mountain mornings can kill a weak battery fast. If your battery is more than 3 years old, it’s smart to get it tested before your trip.
Stop by your local auto shop for a quick voltage test. They’ll check:
- Cold cranking amps (necessary for cold starts)
- Corrosion on the terminals
- Secure connections
No one wants to be stranded in a remote lot at 10,000 feet with a dead battery and no cell service.
Top Off and Check All Fluids
Steep grades and extreme weather push your vehicle’s systems harder than usual. Make sure all fluids are fresh and full:
- Engine oil: Clean oil helps prevent overheating on long climbs.
- Coolant: Critical for preventing your engine from overheating at altitude.
- Brake fluid: Essential for safe descents.
- Transmission fluid: Vital for automatics doing a lot of shifting uphill.
- Washer fluid: You’ll need it for bugs and sudden rainstorms. Bonus if it’s rated for freezing temps.
Inspect Your Tires for Mountain-Ready Grip
Your tires are your only contact with the road. Don’t cut corners here. Mountain roads often have sharp curves, sudden weather changes, and uneven terrain.
Before you go:
- Check tread depth—at least 4/32″ is recommended for mountain driving.
- Set correct air pressure—too low can affect handling, too high can reduce traction.
- Look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear.
- Make sure your spare tire is in good shape and tools are in place.
If snow is possible, consider bringing chains or using winter-rated tires with the mountain/snowflake symbol.
Don’t Forget the Cooling System
A healthy radiator and cooling system are essential for long mountain climbs where your engine works harder than usual.
Get the system inspected for:
- Coolant levels and mixture
- Leaks in hoses or the radiator
- Functioning radiator fans
If your car has a history of overheating, don’t risk it. Get it checked before you hit the road.
Inspect Belts and Hoses
Rubber components like belts and hoses are especially vulnerable to the temperature fluctuations in mountain regions.
Look for:
- Cracks
- Fraying
- Soft spots
- Loose clamps or connections
A snapped belt or leaking hose can mean a long tow, and a short vacation.
Make Sure the AC and Heat Work
Colorado’s weather can swing from sunny and 80 degrees to freezing and snowy, sometimes on the same day. You’ll want:
- Heat that works for chilly mornings
- A/C that cools when the sun is blazing
- A working defroster to keep your visibility clear
Test both systems before your trip to avoid being uncomfortable or unsafe.
Load an Emergency Kit for High Country Conditions
Even if your vehicle is ready, things can still go wrong. Always carry a well-stocked emergency kit when traveling into the mountains.
Include:
- Jumper cables or battery jump pack
- Basic tool kit
- Tire repair kit or inflator
- Warm clothing or blankets
- Water and snacks
- First aid kit
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Ice scraper and small shovel (in winter)
- Cell phone charger (battery-powered or solar)
Bonus tip: Download offline maps in case you lose signal.
Know the Colorado Traction Law
If you’re headed into the mountains between September and May, be aware of Colorado’s Traction Law. If it’s activated (often during snowstorms), you must have:
- Snow tires (with the mountain/snowflake symbol), OR
- All-season tires with 3/16″ minimum tread, OR
- Four-wheel/all-wheel drive with adequate tires, OR
- Carry chains or an approved traction device
If you don’t comply, you could get fined. Or worse.
Fuel Up Early and Often
Mountain towns are beautiful, but fuel stations can be few and far between, especially once you leave major highways. Always:
- Start your trip with a full tank
- Refuel before reaching half a tank in remote areas
- Don’t rely on a single gas station to be open
This is especially important if you’re towing, off-roading, or driving into areas with limited access.
A Little Prep Goes a Long Way
Mountain getaways are some of the best road trips out there, but they do demand a little extra prep. Getting your vehicle road-trip ready can help you avoid roadside headaches and keep the focus on relaxation and adventure.
Need help getting your car ready for the mountains?
We’ve helped Denver drivers get road-ready for decades. Stop by for a pre-trip inspection and peace of mind before you head into the high country. We’ll check your brakes, tires, fluids, and everything else you need for a safe, smooth getaway.