AS the weather heats up, travelers and vacationers will surely take to the open road to enjoy some fun in the sun. But before packing up the car for that long road trip, beach outing, or a possible overnight drive to the nearest nature preserve, owners should tune up their vehicles, especially after the wear and tear of winter.

Even if you think your car is in good shape, it's best to make some routine checks to make sure you reach your destination hassle-free. In addition to and following the recommended checks on these pages, experts advise drivers to visit their mechanic a week or two before their trip to avoid roadside emergencies.

Start by washing your vehicle to remove dirt buildup from the winter. This gives drivers the opportunity to inspect the paint for nicks and scrapes. Wash dirt and grime from your wheel wells to avoid rusting. Clean the windshield and check for cracks (some chips can be repaired without replacing the windshield). This is important because dirty and cracked windshields can contribute to eye fatigue, says Nicole Niemi, a spokeswoman for AAA in Chicago. Replace worn wiper blades and refill windshield washer solvent.

This is also a good time to inspect brake lights, turn signals and high beams. (There's nothing fun about driving at night with one headlight.) Don't forget to give your vehicle a good waxing, which will give it some sheen and help protect the paint.

* CHECK BATTERIES Batteries can fail at any time of the year. Although drivers tend to think they fail more often in the winter, they can also fail in the summer. A professional technician can maintain routine battery care, like scraping away corrosion and tightening connections.

* INSPECTED FLUID LEVELS: Have your oil and filters changed by a professional before leaving home. Oil should be changed every 3,000 miles or every 3 months, but check your owner's manual because intervals vary for engines in newer vehicles. Refill transmission, power-steering and brake fluid. Avoid overfilling reservoirs.

Be sure to check coolant levels. One of the greatest causes of summer breakdowns is overheating, says Niemi of AAA. The system should be flushed and refilled at least every two years. Most drivers think that antifreeze is only necessary during the winter, but it prevents your car from overheating in the summer months, too. The levels need to be maintained year-round. A 50-50 solution of water and antifreeze is usually recommended, but it's best to refer to your manual.

* EXAMINE FILTERS, BELTS AND HOSES: Belts and hoses endure a lot of wear and tear during the winter. When the engine is off and it cools, look for worn or cracked belts and damaged, blistered, or soft hoses.