Millions of motorists will take to the roads for holiday travel. The experts at the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, (ASE), remind drivers that they should have their car checked before leaving. “Breakdowns in winter conditions can be especially dangerous,”Martin Lawson, ASE’s editor-in-chief, notes.

These tips are from ASE to help vehicle owners select a quality repair shop.

* Start shopping for a repair facility before you need one.

* Ask your friends and associates for their recommendations, and consult local consumer groups.

* Arrange for alternate transportation in advance so you will not feel forced to choose a shop based solely on location.

* Look for a neat, well-organized facility, with vehicles in the parking lot equal in value to your own and modern equipment in the service bays.

* Look for a courteous staff, with a service consultant or technicians willing to answer your questions.

* Look for policies regarding estimated repair costs, diagnostic fees, guarantees and acceptable methods of payment.

* Ask if the repair facility specializes or if it usually handles your type of repair work.

* Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area such as civic, community, or customer service awards.

* Look for evidence of qualified technicians: trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work, and certification by ASE indicate the presence of professional, trained technicians.

* Look for the ASE sign. ASE was created in 1972 to enhance the quality of car service and repair. It offers voluntary certification and testing. ASE-certified technicians sport blue and ASE shoulder insignia, and their employers carry the blue and ASE sign.

* Be ready to describe any changes in your vehicle’s handling or performance or other issues. You don’t have to be shy about asking for simple definitions for technical terms you are not familiar with.

* Reward good service with repeat business and customer loyalty.

Visit www.ase.comFor more information, including seasonal tips for car-care, visit www.autoguide.com.