TOPEKA -- Local roadways are filling up as Americans pile into vehicles to celebrate the unofficial start to summer – Memorial Day weekend. With 28 million travelers reaching holiday destination by cars, many could be left stranded away from home this weekend. AAA expects nearly 500,000 Americans to request roadside service nationwide, and to receive 1,300 calls locally, this holiday weekend.

“Whether traveling or near home, the best way to avoid getting stranded on the side of the road is a little preventative maintenance,” said Jim Hanni, executive vice president for public and government affairs at AAA. “Taking care of your vehicle now can prevent the hassle of a breakdown and will cost far less than a major repair that might be needed if vehicle upkeep is ignored.”

AAA recommends the following quick tips to ensure a smooth ride this holiday weekend:

Stick to regular scheduled maintenance. Standard oil changes and manufacturer-recommended maintenance provides the opportunity for trained mechanics to fix and avoid future, costly problems. Simple repairs such as replacing air filters, changing wiper blades, checking fluid levels and tire pressure can help keep motorists on the road this holiday season.

Check tire pressure monthly and prior to road trips. Proper inflation will make tires last longer, delay the need to buy new ones and avoid potential, dangerous blow-outs while on the road. Plus, correct tire pressures will help maximize a vehicle’s fuel economy, while ensuring optimum ride and handling for comfort and safety.

Keep an eye on tire tread. Having good tires with sufficient tread depth is crucial, particularly in wet road conditions. Worn tires with shallow tread are much more likely to hydroplane on wet pavement, resulting in a loss of braking power and steering control.

Inspect the vehicle’s battery. Check battery cables to ensure they are securely attached to the terminals. Clean the terminals if there are any signs of corrosion. AAA's Mobile Battery Service will come to where you are, test and replace your battery if needed. Call 800-AAA-HELP (800-222-4357) to schedule an appointment.