Back to School Car Care Tips

It is about that time of the year when students are getting ready to return to school for the fall semester. It doesn’t matter if you go to college in town or across the country; you have to ensure that your vehicle is in good condition and up to the task. Do not overlook routine maintenance and check-up regardless of how tight your schedule gets. 

Here are some essential back-to-school car care tips that include preventive maintenance, which will limit unexpected repairs and ensure you get to school safely.

ABCs of Basic Car Care

Brush up on your car care knowledge by being proactive with your car’s maintenance which will boost your vehicle’s operational efficiency. Do this by:

• A- Always abide by your car’s service schedule
• B- Be sure to have your car inspected by a certified automotive expert if you suspect issues
• C- Correct issues detected expeditiously to avoid inconveniences that include breakdowns on your journey(s)

Let’s go through a ‘Five Point Check-Up’ you should adhere to that will improve your car’s maintenance and safety scores as you get back to school.

1. Get a Brake Inspection

Your car’s braking system is one of the most essential safety features, and due to enduring wear and tear, you should pay attention and schedule a regular inspection. Ensure the brakes are functioning correctly; there should be no grinding sounds when you brake. 

Get them checked at least once a year or after every 12,000 miles, and tick off the following:

• No screeching or grinding noises as you apply the brakes
• The brake pedal is not hard or low
• There are no vibrations or pulses when you apply the brakes
• The brake light is not illuminated on your car’s dashboard

2. Check Fluids and Filters

Numerous systems within your car’s engine depend on quality fluids and operational filters. Ensure that they are inspected and changed or refilled if they are low. These include:

• Oil change checks using the dipstick and Oil filters as recommended by a certified expert or the owner’s manual
• Transmission fluid and filter, brake fluid, and power steering fluid
• Coolant and antifreeze levels
• Engine air filters and cabin air filters which a certified expert should install

3. Check Your Tires

Ensure that your tires have adequate treads and refill underinflated tires. Also, check that your spare tire is properly inflated as well.  Look for excessive tire wear. These checks see to it that the tires are all in tip-top condition with more road grip. Be sure to replace the ones that are worn out.

4. Check Your Battery

Have your car’s electrical system tested to ensure your alternator is charging and your battery is in proper working order. Clean the terminals to mitigate corrosion and maintain amperage levels. Moreover, check the battery’s date on the top since most have a 3-5 years lifespan, and replace it if necessary.

5. Check Your Bulbs and Fuses

Ensure that all your car’s interior and exterior lights are functional and operating for your and other motorists’ safety. It also sees to it that you avoid getting ticketed and fined for having a bulb out. Check the car’s owner’s manual for guidelines on how to replace bulbs and check fuses or visit an expert in automotive maintenance.

Additional Tips

Remember to check if the wiper blades are in good condition. Such a move ensures you have adequate visibility in case of rainy weather. Next, carry proof of insurance, registration and your driver’s license with you in the event that you get pulled over. Lastly, get an emergency kit that’s fully fitted. 

Schedule a back-to-school car care service appointment with us for all your preventative maintenance needs today.