As we head into the Labor Day holiday and reach the peak of hurricane season, making sure your car is ready for the road is more important than ever.

1. Check Your Fluids
Before any trip, check your car’s key fluids:

• Engine oil – essential for smooth operation.
• Antifreeze – never open a hot cooling system to check; it can burn you.
• Windshield washer fluid – ensures clear visibility.
• Transmission fluid – only if your car has a dipstick for it.

2. Inspect Your Battery
Corroded battery terminals can prevent your car from starting. Look for green or whitish powdery deposits. Avoid quick fixes like pouring soda on it; proper cleaning is necessary.

3. Maintain Your Air Filter
A clean air filter improves fuel efficiency and keeps your engine running smoothly.

4. Handle AC with Care
If your air conditioning is low on refrigerant, avoid “quick fill” solutions unless you know what you’re doing. Modern AC systems use different types of refrigerant and can be dangerous to service incorrectly.

5. Check Your Tires

• Tread depth – look for the small raised bar in the tire grooves. If it’s even with the tread, it’s time to replace the tire.
• Uneven wear – misalignment can cause premature wear.
• Tire pressure – under-inflated tires reduce fuel efficiency and can overheat, leading to failure. Check the pressure using the gauge on the valve stem and reference your owner’s manual or the door-jamb placard for the correct PSI.

6. Prepare for Emergencies
Hurricane season makes emergency preparation essential:

• Spare tire – check air pressure regularly, even if unused.
• Tire repair kit or puncture sealer – for temporary fixes when no spare is available.
• Emergency kit – include ponchos, gloves, flashlight, tie-downs, candles, and a first aid kit.
• Jumper cables – always have them on hand in case of a dead battery.

7. Gas Safety
Avoid carrying extra gasoline in a closed trunk—it’s unsafe. Trucks and SUVs can carry fuel in secured containers if necessary, but exercise caution.

8. Stay Calm in Evacuations
Traffic jams are common during emergencies. If you’re running low on fuel, find a safe place to stop and wait. Avoid idling in traffic, which can lead to running out of gas. Preparation and patience are key.

Final Thoughts
Don’t wait until the last minute. Taking a few simple steps now—checking fluids, tires, battery, and keeping an emergency kit—can save you time, money, and stress later. Whether it’s a holiday road trip or a hurricane evacuation, being prepared keeps you and your loved ones safe

_{Photo credit: KGTX 7/Pat O’Reilly}