The AAA examines these holiday traveling plans and released figures last week predicting that about 46 million people in the U.S. plan to travel this season. That’s an increase of more than 4 percent over last year. The take-home message, though, is that fuel prices will be about 46 cents lower per gallon than in 2013. We haven’t seen the likes of it for five years.

You could even get to spend more on presents, but experts believe higher retail costs could hamper that. Regardless, you can still drive more on your gas budget than you might have thought.

If you’re traveling at all, though, the staffers at Christian Brothers in Westfield, IN recommend getting a seasonal auto checkup first. With more traveling, your chances of having to cope with things such as icy weather and storms increases.

Stop by our shop in Westfield and we can help with the following recommendations by the Car Care Council:

• Flush and clean the antifreeze and cooling
• Test and re-aim lights for winter driving conditions
• Get “winter weight” oil
• Kick those tires and check tread
• Check the spark plugs
• Make sure the heater and your car’s engine thermostat are working properly
• Examine the vehicle for risky CO2 leaks
• Check the braking system
• Check the alternator, starter and battery

There are also steps for safety that you should perform by yourself, including stocking the car with emergency food, clothing and tools. Finally, our techs say you should never let your fuel get too low so the fuel lines don’t crack.