make a pit stop

1. To come to a stop during an auto race to repair or refuel the racing vehicle. The area where the vehicle stops is known as the "pit." With only three laps left, he'll have to decide whether to make a pit stop or try to reach the finish without running out of gas.

2. By extension, to make a short stop during a car trip to eat, rest, or refuel. I knew it was going to be a long drive from New York to Florida, so I planned to make several pit stops along the way to give myself a break.

make a ˈpit stop

(informal, especially American English) stop for a short time during a long journey by road for a rest, meal, etc: I’m getting a bit hungry. Shall we make a pit stop at the next service station?

In motor racing, a pit stop is an occasion when a car stops during a race for more fuel, etc.