Our nation has already been enduring record heat this summer and it's not over yet. If you're planning a summer driving vacation this year remember that the heat isn't just tough on you, it's tough on your car as well. Here are some tips to make sure you don't end up spending part of your vacation on the side of some freeway.

1) Radiator - Make sure there is adequate coolant in your radiator and if it hasn't been flushed in a couple of years, do that before you hit the road.

2) Hoses - Your coolant is only as good as the hoses it flows through. Look for leaks, cracks, peels or seperation.

3) Oil - The hotter is gets, the more important oil becomes to your car. Make sure you have enough and it's nice and clean.

4) Battery - Check you battery and make sure your terminals are clean, do you have adequate water in there. Most auto parts stores will check this out for free.

5) AC - When was the last time your air conditioner was serviced? It's super important for summer driving and it's cheap to check. Put a thermometer in the vent and see how cool the air is getting.

6) Temperature - Lastly keep an eye on your temperature gauge, if it gets in the red you will have to turn your motor off or risk blowing it.

These tips should help you have a safe, happy, and less expensive summer driving vacation.