Thanksgiving is coming up, and this holiday is known as a time when many families will pack up their cars and hit the road to visit loved ones. When going for an extended drive, whether your destination is just an hour away or you'll be crossing through multiple states, the first thing on your mind should be safety. It is a good idea to perform a few basic checks and get a tuneup before heading out on the road. This can reduce the risk of encountering a problem en route to Grandma's house and help you and your family have a safe Turkey Day.

"A pre-trip check provides peace of mind, helping reduce the chance of costly car trouble and providing an opportunity to have any repairs performed by one's own trusted technician before hitting the road," said Rich White, executive director for the Car Care Council. "While no inspection can guarantee a car's performance, it's comforting to know proper precautions were taken to ensure a stress-free Thanksgiving road trip."

You should take a look at your fluid levels, and consider getting an oil change if you're about due or you notice any debris in the fluid. You'll also want to top off your coolant and windshield washer fluid if they're getting low. Grab a tire gauge and make sure there is enough air in your tires, inspect the windshield wipers and make sure your lights are all working properly. You should also have a mechanic, such as one of the experts at New Jersey Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center, perform an inspection of the hoses, belts and battery. The mechanic may be able to spot a potential problem and have it fixed up before your trip.