If you’re going to hit the road for the 2014 holidays, you’re in good shape! As you may have noticed, the gas prices have dropped recently, and analysts believe they will stay that way throughout the holiday season.

The AAA analyzes these holiday issues on a national level and released information last week predicting that about 46 million people in the country plan to travel this season. That’s an increase of more than 4 percent over last year. The best part, though, is that fuel prices will be an average of 46 cents lower per gallon than last year. Prices haven’t been so low since 2009.

You could even be able to spend more on other Christmas items, but economists believe higher retail costs could hamper that. Regardless, you will have the option to drive more on your fuel budget than you probably expected. If nothing else, that could cut down your stress so you can visit family and friends more easily.

If you’re on the roads for any amount of time, though, the specialists at Christian Brothers in New Braunfels, TX recommend getting a wintertime auto checkup first. With more traveling, your risk of having to cope with things such as ice and snow increases.

Stop by our shop in New Braunfels and we can assist with the following:

• Check the battery and charging system
• Check the braking system
• Test for dangerous CO2 leaks
• Test the thermostat and heater
• Make sure you’re on schedule for spark plugs
• Kick those tires and check tread
• Switch to “winter weight” oil and do an oil change
• Check the headlamps for winter driving conditions
• Flush and clean the antifreeze and cooling

Also, be sure to take steps like stocking the car with an extra set of warm boots and clothes, food and a flashlight, tools and cables and snow brushes or ice scrapers. We also recommend that you never let your fuel get too low to prevent frozen fuel lines.