As South Africans prepare for the December holiday rush, many motorists will be checking their accommodation bookings, packing their bags and planning their road trips. But there is one important travel companion that deserves attentionbefore the journey begins -  the car itself.

Most vehicle breakdowns don't necessarily happen without warning. In many cases, a car gives subtle clues that something isn't quite right long before a component fails completely. The problem is that these signs are often easy to dismissduring everyday driving.

A slight vibration, an unfamiliar smell, a new noise or a vehicle that suddenly pulls to one side might seem relatively harmless at first. However, these changes could point to developing mechanical or safety-related problems that deserveattention, particularly before embarking on a long-distance journey.

According to the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), motorists should learn to recognise these early warning signs rather than waiting until a problem becomesimpossible to ignore.

"Your car doesn't always tell you something is wrong by breaking down on the side of the road. Sometimes it starts with a small change that you might barely notice. The trick is not to dismiss it or assume it will go away," says DewaldRanft, National Chairman of MIWA.

Here are some of the warning signs motorists should look out for:

1. An unusual smell - your car may be trying to tell you something

A burning smell should never be ignored. It could indicate overheating brakes, an electrical issue, slipping belts or other mechanical problems. A sweet, syrup-like smell could point to a coolant leak, while a strong fuel smell may indicatea fuel system problem.

If the smell is persistent or particularly strong, have the vehicle checked promptly rather than continuing to drive and hoping it disappears.

2. New noises - listen carefully

Cars make familiar sounds, so motorists are often quick to notice when something changes. Squealing brakes, grinding noises, knocking from the engine, rattling or unusual humming can all indicate developing problems.

A squealing noise when braking, for example, could mean brake pads are worn and need attention. Grinding or knocking noises should be investigated without delay.

3. A vibration you haven't noticed before

A steering wheel that vibrates, a vehicle that shakes at certain speeds or an unusual vibration when braking should not be dismissed as simply an ageing car.

These symptoms could be associated with wheel balancing, tyre damage, suspension components or brake problems. A professional inspection can help identify the cause before it affects the vehicle's handling or safety.

4. Your car is pulling to one side

If your vehicle consistently drifts or pulls left or right when driving on a straight, level road, it could indicate incorrect wheel alignment, uneven tyre pressure or a suspension or braking issue.

Apart from making driving uncomfortable, these problems can contribute to uneven tyre wear and affect vehicle control.

5. Warning lights on the dashboard

Dashboard warning lights are there for a reason. Whether it is the engine management light, battery warning, oil pressure warning or temperature warning, motorists should know what these indicators mean.

Some warnings require immediate attention. A red oil pressure or engine temperature warning, for example, means motorists should pull over safely and switch off the engine as soon as possible. Continuing to drive could cause serious damage.

6. Changes in braking performance

If the brake pedal feels softer than usual, sinks further than expected, the vehicle takes longer to stop, or there is pulsation or unusual noise when braking, it is time for a professional assessment.

Brakes are one vehicle system where motorists should never take chances. Any noticeable change in braking performance warrants prompt attention.

7. Tyres that look or feel different

Uneven tread wear, visible bulges, cracks, cuts or repeated loss of tyre pressure are signs that something needs investigating. Tyres are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, making their condition particularly importantbefore a long journey.

Check tyre pressures, including the spare wheel, and ensure that tread depth and overall tyre condition are roadworthy.

Don't wait for the breakdown

"One of the biggest mistakes motorists make is getting used to a problem. A noise becomes part of the background, a vibration is something they learn to live with, or a warning light is ignored because the car still seems to be drivingnormally," Ranft explains.

"Before a long-distance trip, have any unusual symptoms checked by a reputable accredited workshop. A pre-trip inspection is also a sensible way to identify potential problems that may not yet be obvious to the driver," concludes Ranft.