Prep car before packing bags

by Center for Personal Finance editors

SAN FRANCISCO (7/11/06)--Taking a summer vacation by car? Don't leave home without preparing your vehicle (MarketWatch.com July 5).

A little preventive maintenance will go a long way this summer--you don't want hefty repair bills on top of high gas prices. Go over this list and check it twice to give you some peace of mind:

Check fluid levels. Make sure the brake fluid, power-steering fluid, coolant, and oil levels are topped off where they should be. If you'll be driving long distance, consider having your oil changed even if it doesn't need it now. Ask your mechanic whether the coolant needs to be changed.

Check tire pressure. Make sure they're properly inflated and aren't worn in spots. Inflate your spare tire--just in case.

Check the belt. If your car has a single serpentine belt--for power steering, air conditioning, and cooling system--you should look for cracks or tears.

Keep cool. Have the air conditioning system checked; if you smell mildew, have it cleaned.

Charge it. No, not the card, the battery. During hot summer months, your battery takes a beating. Press the accelerator and have someone check to see if your headlights and other electrical devices brighten. If they do, you may need a new battery, or at least some maintenance. Check for corroded terminals and low fluid levels.

Check for leaks. Run the engine for 10 minutes, shut it off, and look for leaking fluid. If you see some, head for the shop.

Experts also recommend you check the wiper blades because greasy windshields become opaque in a violent thunderstorm (eyewitnessnewstv.com).

New spark plugs pay for themselves fairly quickly: Your engine burns cleaner and more effectively, and your wallet gets a boost from improved gas mileage and performance. Otherwise, replace plugs every 50,000 to 60,000 miles for optimal performance and change wires along with the plugs (nascar.com).

For more information, read "Take a Summertime Drive to Safety" in the Home & Family Finance Resource Center autos section.