Whether you’re heading planning a weekend getaway or a major cross-country trek, few things can turn a road trip into a nightmare quicker than breaking down in the middle of nowhere.

The best way to keep your vehicle in tip-top condition is to follow a regularly scheduled maintenance program, as recommended in your service manual. In addition, technicians recommend that drivers conduct a pre-trip vehicle inspection before each getaway. It’s best to perform this check and schedule any needed service several days before your trip in case of unforeseen delays at the shop. Checking the following can give you peace of mind and help prevent costly repairs down the road:

• Radiator and cooling/heating system
• Brakes, brake pads and brake linings
• Battery, cables, belts and hoses
• Oil, washer, coolant and transmission fluids
• Wiper blades
• Tire pressure and tire condition, looking for uneven wear or tread depth. Don’t forget the spare; you may want to replace it with a real tire. If your trip involves snowy or icy terrain, be sure to have snow tires or chains ready in advance and know how to use them.
• Don’t leave on a long trip with your car’s “Check Engine” light on. Products such as the handheld CarMD device can check for hidden problems and solve “Check Engine” mysteries at home.

The automotive industry estimates that more than 8 percent of all cars on the road have an illuminated check engine light. This dashboard warning can mean something as simple as a loose gas cap, or much more severe such as a transmission problem. At a minimum, driving with a “Check Engine” light on will result in reduced gas mileage (costing you money at the pump) and increased pollution. It can also quickly turn into a roadside breakdown that can be expensive as well as dangerous. It’s best to solve “Check Engine” problems – even intermittent ones – before taking a trip. Once your car’s in good working order, follow these planning and packing tips to help make your getaway smooth and worry-free:

• Map your route. Even if you have a GPS system, double-check with an old-fashioned map.
• Check ahead for planned road closures. Several national and regional websites are available, such as www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo, or you can call 511 – America’s Traveler Information Number.
• Watch the weather forecast
• Research and book places to stay
• Bring extra coolant, oil and water
• Always carry some snacks, extra blankets and water
• Pack an emergency roadside kit
• Have extra tools on-hand, including screwdriver, pliers, tire jack and jumper cables.

Finally, buckle up and enjoy the ride. You’ve done everything you can to help make your car healthy and ensure that your road trip will be worry-free.