Look out for signs like poor fuel efficiency, rough idling, difficulty starting, or a noticeable drop in performance. Most manufacturers recommend a tune-up every 30,000 miles, but check your vehicle’s manual for specific guidelines.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated, check fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid), inspect brakes, lights, and wipers. Pack an emergency kit with essentials like a spare tire, jumper cables, and first aid supplies. Schedule a pre-trip inspection for peace of mind.

Immediately turn off the air conditioning and turn on the heater to draw heat away from the engine. Pull over safely, let the engine cool, and check coolant levels. If needed, add coolant.