Published: November 25, 2008 08:32 am      

Car check-ups a good idea before holiday trips

By Cristin Ross

cross@jacksonvilleprogress.com

Nothing ruins a holiday trip like car trouble.

According to the American Automobile Association, more than 33.2 million Americans will hit the roads for the holiday as gas prices continue to drop. That’s why the Car Care Council recommends travelers check out their vehicles before starting a trip.

“In a very short amount of time, motorists can identify how road-ready their vehicle is and then take steps to have the problems fixed before heading out for vacation,” Car Care Council Executive Director Rich White said in a release published on the council’s Web site. “It’s a small sacrifice compared to the inconvenience and potential safety hazards of breaking down many miles away from home. Plus, if repairs or maintenance are needed, they can be done by a repair shop that knows you and your vehicle.”

The 10-minute pre-trip checkup recommended by the council includes the following:

• Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering and brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.

• Check the hoses and belts that can become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show signs of excessive wear. These are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system.

• Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.

To save on fuel costs during the trip, the council suggests that motorists avoid aggressive driving, observe the speed limit and avoid excessive idling. Gas caps that are damaged, loose or missing should be replaced to prevent gas from spilling or evaporating.

The AAA reports the number of people traveling over the Thanksgiving holiday is expected to drop for the first time in six years.

As estimated 41 million will venture 50 miles or more for their share of turkey and dressing — a decrease of about 600,000 from 2007. The drop is the first since 2002 and the fourth consecutive holiday in which the number of travelers has declined when compared with 2007 levels.

Officials blame the state of the economy.

“The overall state of the economy continues to present real challenges for some Americans looking to travel this Thanksgiving,” AAA representative Dawn Duffy said in a release on the association’s Web site. “However, the desire to spend time with family, combined with significantly lower gas prices than earlier this year, will provide a strong impetus for many Americans to still travel. It’s still hard to say no to grandma’s pumpkin pie.”