(NewsUSA) - Summer's heat and stop-and-go traffic can cause poorly functioning automotive systems to fail outright.

To prevent vacation-ruining breakdowns, the experts at the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence offer the following tips on getting your vehicle ready for summer:

* Read the owner's manual and follow the recommended service schedules.

* Flush and refill the cooling system according to the service manual's recommendations. The level, condition and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. Let the engine cool down before removing the radiator cap.

* Have drivability problems, such as hard starts, rough idling and stalling, corrected.

* Ask a qualified auto technician to check the tightness and condition of belts, clamps and hoses.

* Have a marginally operating air conditioner system serviced by a qualified technician.

* Change the oil and oil filter as specified in the owner's manual. Replace other filters as recommended.

* Check the condition of tires, including the spare. Let tires cool down before checking air pressure.

* Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned-out bulbs.

* Replace worn wiper blades and keep plenty of washer solvent on hand to fight summer's dust and insects.

If you are not a do-it-yourselfer, or if your car requires professional attention, look for repair facilities that employ ASE-certified automotive technicians.

ASE-certified technicians wear blue and white ASE shoulder insignia and carry credentials listing their exact areas of certification. Their employers often display the blue and white ASE sign.

Visit www.ase.com for more information and for car care tips.