What You Should Know About Having a Car

Every licensed driver must be prepared for the responsibility that comes along with having a car.

Responsible Car Maintenance

It’s important to perform regular maintenance on your car and take it in for repairs as necessary. Before driving your car, always inspect your tires for any damages. Check your tire pressure and any fluids that might need to be refilled, including your brake fluid, engine oil, and coolant. Test your brake lights and replace any bulbs if needed. Seasonally change your tires to snow tires and replace your windshield wipers to ensure you stay safe during snow and rain. Routinely change your oil according to your car’s owner’s manual. For the repairs you can’t take care of yourself, you will need to find reliable car tune up services Illinois.

Gear for Your Car

In your car, you’ll want a basic first aid kit along with some other car-specific safety items you may need in an emergency on the road. Keep everything in a bag or one location like the trunk of your car, so it is organized and easy to access. Include a flashlight, reflective cones or flares, car hammer, seat belt cutter, duct tape, spare tire, tire jack, and jumper cables. During the wintertime, keep a snow shovel, ice scraper, blankets, and kitty litter for traction in the ice or snow. As the seasons change, you can add things like sunglasses and an umbrella.

Everyday Essentials

Don’t forget to keep basic everyday items you need in your car for added convenience. Install a hands-free GPS holder to make road navigation easier. Keep extra car chargers for your phone and other electronics you regularly use. It’s a good idea to keep tissues and paper towels on hand, but make sure you also have a small trash can to clean up any messes. Other common items include gum, spare change, a pen with paper, snacks or energy bars, and water bottles.

Take proper care of your car and stay prepared on the road with these things in mind.