Chances are that you don't want your car to break down on the way to visit your loved ones this holiday season, so it is important to make sure you are prepared to travel safely. AAA is predicting there will be more than 1.2 million drivers who get stuck on the side of the road during holiday travel, whether they get locked out of their cars, need jumps or battery replacements, have flat tires or need a tow.

"Becoming stranded on the roadway is the last thing on anyone's holiday wishlist," said Marshall L. Doney, AAA National's vice president of automotive, financial services and e-business. "Whether you are staying local or planning a long distance road trip, having your vehicle properly maintained and prepared for holiday driving will help ensure it gets you and your loved ones to your destination safely and without incident."

In order to reduce your chances of being stranded, you should get a routine tuneup and address minor issues that could worsen, such as leaks or worn parts. You can visually inspect the belts and hoses for signs of wear or damage yourself. Belts should be free of tears and should not sag or feel loose. Hoses should be pliable – not too soft or hard to the touch. If you suspect any belts or hoses are in need of replacement, you can bring you car to NJ State Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center to have the issue taken care of. This will help you avoid further damages that could be more complicated and expensive to repair.

It is also important to check fluid levels and ensure there is plenty of antifreeze, as this protects against frozen fluids in the pipes of your engine. Top off the windshield wiper fluid and check the wiper blades to ensure they are in good condition, replacing them if necessary. AAA also recommends inspecting tires to ensure they have a good tread and the correct air pressure.

Kelley Blue Book recently named the new Ford Fusion as the 2013 Best Redesigned Vehicle. The midsize sedan beat out more than 20 other models that also went through extensive changes for the new year. KBB judges looked at a variety of categories, including exterior and interior design, driving dynamics, technology, comfort and convenience features, performance and value. The Fusion outshone its competitors, and Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for KBB, explained that the choice was an easy one.

"More than a handful of vehicles made the shortlist for this year, but ultimately the 2013 Ford Fusion was named KBB.com's 2013 Best Redesigned Vehicle with impressive gains in design, technology and fuel economy," said Nerad. "Outside, the new Fusion is clearly the hottest-looking car in a class with no fewer than 13 other entrants. The interior is just as striking, and a variety of technological enhancements and choice of five powertrains is just icing on the cake. Whatever mix of value, power and fuel efficiency you're looking for in a midsize sedan, the new Fusion has it."

Drivers who are thinking about purchasing a 2013 Fusion in a few years when they can find a used model can keep their current vehicle on the road by getting regular tuneups and oil changes as well as addressing repairs. The experts at New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center can take care of all these automotive needs and more.

Those who need to trade in their current ride for something newer can also turn to NJ Auto Auction, since the dealer carries a wide selection of used makes and models. Every vehicle on the lot is CARFAX certified, allowing car shoppers to buy with confidence.

Many people travel for the holidays to visit family and friends or take vacations, and the latest projections from AAA indicate the number of those who will be taking to the roads or skies this year has increased compared to the 2011 holiday season. Across the board, AAA estimates there will be approximately 93.3 million people who have end-of-year travel plans, which is 1.6 percent higher than the 91.8 million who traveled last year. The vast majority (90 percent) of these people will be reaching their destination by automobile, and the average excursion is expected to be around 760 miles, round-trip.

"The year-end holiday season remains the least volatile of all travel holidays, as Americans will not let economic conditions of high gas prices dictate if they go home for the holidays or kick off the New Year with a vacation," said Beth Mosher, director of public affairs for AAA Chicago. "Primary economic factors all show modest improvement from last year, and AAA is projecting an increase in the number of Americans stuffing their stockings with airline tickets and hotel reservations."

Those planning to take road trips this month should make sure their cars are in good condition before they hit the road. Everything from checking tire pressure and topping off fluids to getting a routine tune up and addressing repairs should be part of the pre-travel checklist. Drivers in the New York/New Jersey area can bring their cars to NJ State Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center, which is open to the public. The automotive experts can handle everything from oil changes to replacements and repairs to ensure travelers reach their destinations safely.

Whether your job is far away in New York City, or you have to trek across town every day to get to the office, the miles you put on your car can really add up.  Not only does sitting in traffic put added wear on your vehicle and waste gas, but it can be a draining experience for you as well.

If you're gearing up to buy a car, you should look at features like fuel economy and passenger comfort. It is also a good idea to consider safety features like blind spot warnings and other technology, which can help make your commute safer and less stressful. There are many cars, trucks and SUVs that offer features like these, and Bankrate.com recently provided a list of great choices for commuters.

When it comes to saving gas, hybrid vehicles like the Toyota Prius can be ideal. The Prius C gets approximately 46 miles to the gallon on the highway, and since you can switch between gas and electric power, you won't have to fill up quite as often. This car also features safety technology like brake assist, traction control and vehicle stability control, which can dramatically reduce your risk of fender benders in stop-and-go traffic.

The Hyundai Elantra also made the list, thanks to its low initial price tag as well as its 38 MPG fuel economy and comfortable interior. In fact, the 2012 model was named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Bankrate.com also listed the Audi A3, Nissan Altima, Honda CR-V and Chevrolet Volt as top choices for commuter cars.

All of these models have been available for years, which means drivers may be able to find used versions at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer carries a wide selection of makes and models, and every vehicle on the lot if CARFAX certified, so drivers know they'll be getting behind the wheel of a reliable ride.

Chrysler is starting a charitable foundation in the name of the company's CEO, Sergio Marchionne. The charity will support the educational needs of Chrysler employees' children by granting scholarships, beginning in 2014. Ronald Thompson, the lead director of the Chrysler Group LLC Board of Directors, credits Marchionne's ability to foster change and his strong leadership qualities as the inspiration to help drive the success of younger generations.

"I am extremely privileged and thankful to have this foundation established given the extraordinary commitment made by all stakeholders in the rebirth of Chrysler after the events of 2009," said Marchionne. "The action being proposed by the Board of Directors provides an opportunity to support important causes consistent with the values of Chrysler, with an initial focus on the educational needs and ambitions of our employees' children."

Marchionne stepped in as CEO of Chrysler after the company emerged from filing bankruptcy in 2009, according to Autoblog. Since then he has worked to improve the automaker's status and helped it recover to nearly pre-recession levels. The automotive business mogul, who turned Fiat into a fast-growing business, has continued to refuse compensation for his work with Chrysler. This bold move has allowed more funds to remain in the business, and helped to instill trust from employees.

It is Marchionne's generous, giving nature that has impressed the Chrysler Board of Directors, and inspired them to start this nonprofit. The automaker will provide funds for the charity, partly from sales profits. Those interested in purchasing a Chrysler may be able to find a used model that fits their needs at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer carries a wide selection of makes and models, and every vehicle on the lot is CARFAX certified.