Protecting your vehicle against unnecessary breakdowns and repair shop expenses is easy! There are just a few simple things to check before setting out on that spring break getaway. Knowing how to check the critical fluids in your vehicle is a great way to keep you and others safe.

But before you have some fun in the sun, you got to make sure you reach your destination:

Engine Oil

The first thing you should do for any trip is to check on your oil.  The engine oil lubricates the inner workings of that very complex piece of machinery sitting underneath your hood.  To check the oil, first look for the oil dipstick (often yellow). Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel. Look for marks on the end of the dipstick indicating the oil level range, usually saying "ADD" and "FULL."   Dip it again for a second reading.  Make sure the oil on dipstick is between the correct markings. If you see the level is below the "ADD" mark, treat your car to an oil fill up. You can choose to do this yourself or go to a mechanic's shop for professional help.

Now take a look at the color of the oil. New oil is a golden brown color whereas old, used oil is black. If your oil is black, please change it ASAP. Keep in mind, diesel engines will turn oil a black color sooner than a gasoline engine. Follow the car manufacturer's oil change schedule for best results.

Engine Coolant

Your engine coolant flows throughout the engine helping it stay cool while it is running. To check the coolant level, find your car's coolant reservoir tank which is usually on the passenger's side of the engine bay. Normally, it's made of clear plastic allowing you to visually check the level without getting greasy. Markings will appear on the side of the container showing the proper fluid level. The coolant, also called anti-freeze, is usually green or orange. If low, add coolant to the reservoir tank. An easy solution to topping off the coolant level is a 50/50 mix solution that any auto parts store would carry. The 50/50 mix ensures that the proper mixture of coolant to water is added.

Important: Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot! The radiator is under pressure when the engine is hot and will spew scalding liquid everywhere. However, the coolant reservoir is not under pressure and can be opened at any time. Also, anti-freeze is very toxic. Keep it, as well as any other fluids from the engine, off of you and the car's paint, and away from pets.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is what allows the car to stop. The fluid is pumped through the car's brake system and hydraulically operates the brakes. To check the brake fluid on newer vehicles, look for a plastic container sitting atop a metal cylinder that is attached to the back side of the engine bay on the driver's side. This container should be translucent, allowing a visual check of the fluid level. On older vehicles, the master cylinder has a lid that must be removed to check the fluid. If the brake fluid is low, just add brake fluid, which can be found at any auto parts store.

Windshield Washer Fluid

You may not think of washer fluid as being very important, but when your windshield is dirty and the closest gas station is five miles in the opposite direction, washer fluid proves invaluable. The washer fluid reservoir is located in different places, depending on what vehicle you own, and is usually clear. Typically, a gallon of washer fluid can be purchased for less than $5 at any auto parts store.

Tire Pressure

Having the proper air pressure in your tires is important - not only for your safety - but for gas mileage as well. Under-inflation can cause heat buildup and stress in tires that can cause a blow-out. Under-inflated tires take more energy to roll and will decrease gas mileage. First, find how much air your car requires its tires to have. Don't just look at the maximum pressure given on the sidewall of the tire. The correct amount can be found in the owner's manual or on a sticker located inside a door jam.

After the correct pressure is found, use a tire gauge to check all the tires. Check the pressure when the tires are cold. Tires heat up as they are driven, which increases the pressure. Checking the pressure when the tire is hot will give a false reading.

Air pumps can be found at many gas stations around town. However, they usually require money and are often slow to use. Invest in an electric tire pump and keep it in your car. These things tend to come in handy.

Exterior Check

Finally, before getting into your vehicle, walk around it. Look for anything out of place, broken or missing. Check the headlights, taillights and brake lights to insure they work. Check the wiper blades to see if the rubber is cracked or brittle.

If you feel that you cannot do the things listed here, take your vehicle to a mechanic's shop and let them check it out. Preventive maintenance will save you time and money in the long run. And remember, your car will thank you!