With today’s busy lifestyle, it is more important than ever to have a dependable vehicle that your family can reliably count on. In order to ensure that your car is in proper working order, it is crucial that you check on certain parts of the vehicle occasionally so it keeps running smoothly and safely. Here are the most important items to keep an eye on.
Having an Emergency Kit
You probably have the basics to fix a flat tire, such as a jack, tire iron, and a spare, but you will also need jumper cables, flares, and basic first aid on hand. It is also good to keep drinking water, rain gear, flashlights, and blankets in your vehicle, just in case of an emergency. Another item to keep in mind to have a part of your kit would be extra clothes or jackets.
Keeping the Interior Clean
Tidying up the car not only makes everything more pleasant for everyone, but it also keeps you safe. Garbage and other items can become projectiles in the event of an accident, or even if you have to brake hard to prevent one. If you are in need to break a piece of debris could prevent you from doing so.
Checking Brake Pads and Drums
It is always best to have your brakes evaluated on a regular basis. If they are working intermittently, or make a grinding or squealing sound, they need immediate attention. It’s better to be safe than sorry in the long run.
Replacing Windshield Wipers
Your wipers will wear out over time from consistent usage. If they are no longer displacing water appropriately, they will need to be replaced. You can easily measure and replace them at your local auto shop store.
Aligning the Wheels
Your vehicle should always steer freely in the direction that you intend However if it veers to one side or the other, you may need to take it in for a professional wheel alignment. This process will take about an hour to complete.
Testing the Exterior Lights
To drive safely at night, you will need full-functioning headlights and taillights. But, you will also need to take a look at the turn signals, parking lights, and even the license plate light to make sure each is working properly. Failing to check if one of your lights is out can result in you getting pulled over.
Resolving Dashboard Lights
These warning lights exist for a reason. It is especially worrisome if your “Check Engine” light is lit. There are many reasons this could happen, so it is best to take your car to a mechanic to figure it out.
Maintaining the Tires
Worn treads or underinflated tires can be serious hazards when driving on the road, especially in inclement weather. They can lead to blowouts and flats, which can leave you stranded if you don’t have a spare tire or roadside assistance. Bad tires can even cause collisions in some cases.
In conclusion, taking care of the items listed above should keep your loved ones safe and secure while traveling in your family vehicle. It is always better to be safe than sorry, so be sure to scan this list.
