Getting Your Car Back-to-School Ready

Is Your Car Back-To-School Ready?

The back-to-school season is upon us! For some it may mean getting up early, cooking breakfast, and making sure the kids catch the bus on time. For others, it means busy school commutes, and carpooling is about to become a regular part of your routine again. Before the first school bell rings, it’s essential to ensure your vehicle is ready to handle anything. From traffic to detours and everything in between. Here are a few checkpoints to follow to ensure your car is back-to-school ready next month!

Inspect Your Tires:

Start with a thorough tire inspection. Check the tire pressure and ensure it’s at the recommended level. Tires with not enough air can be a hazard on the road, especially if the weather is poor. Properly inflated tires not only improve fuel efficiency but also provide better traction, enhancing safety on the road. Don’t forget to examine the tread depth and look for signs of wear. If the treads are looking a little worn, it might be time for new tires. That way, you’re extra ready for the school year ahead!

Check Fluid Levels:

When your fluids are down, it can cause issues to arise while you drive. From the A/C breaking down to your brakes squeaking. It is important to make sure all your fluid levels are topped off. Keep an eye on essential fluids like oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Top off any fluids that are running low. Fresh oil and proper coolant levels are particularly crucial to prevent overheating during traffic-heavy school drop-offs.

Test Your Brakes:

Your brakes are literally one of the most important parts of your car. Your vehicle’s braking system should be in top condition. For your safety, listen for any unusual sounds while braking and pay attention to how the brake pedal feels. If you notice any issues, like squeaking or a spongy pedal, schedule a brake inspection immediately.

Inspect Lights and Signals:

Ensure that all your lights, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals are functioning correctly. You can do this by turning on your car and having a second person let you know if they are working properly. Remember to check all lights, even your hazard signals. Proper lighting is crucial for visibility, especially during early morning or late afternoon school commutes.

Check the Air Conditioning System:

August is still a hot one in South Carolina. That’s why it’s important to check in on your car’s air conditioning. Make sure your A/C is blowing cold air and that the system is free of any unusual odors. Don’t forget to top off any fluid it might be missing!

Replace Worn Wiper Blades:

Clear visibility is a must when driving, particularly during inclement weather. Inspect your wiper blades and replace them if they’re streaking, smearing, or leaving areas untouched on the windshield. This will help ensure a clear view during rain or fog, especially for early morning drop-offs.

Review Emergency Kit Supplies:

Be prepared for any unexpected situations by ensuring your car’s emergency kit is well-stocked. Check for items such as a spare tire, jack, jumper cables, flashlight, first aid kit, and any other essential supplies. This kit can be personalized as well! While emergency supplies are important, you can also include snacks for your kids when they get out of school, and extra coat in case one is forgotten. Tissues, medicine, and other toiletries might also be a great fit for an emergency traffic jam as well.

Clean and Organize the Interior:

A clutter-free and organized interior can reduce stress during your daily commute. Declutter your car’s interior, vacuum the floors, and wipe down surfaces. Consider using organizers to keep school supplies, backpacks, and other items in order. This will also help your kids stay back-to-school ready, knowing they have a clean place to put their school supplies, sports equipment, or other hobbies they bring home with them.

Stay Updated on the Maintenance Schedule:

Make sure your car’s maintenance schedule is up to date. If any regular maintenance tasks are due or overdue, such as oil changes or filter replacements, now is the time to take care of them.

A well-prepared vehicle ensures smoother and safer back-to-school journeys for you and your family. These steps are here to help you stay proactive about maintenance, especially when it comes to driving around your kids. Kick off the school year with confidence, knowing your car is ready to tackle the challenges of the road ahead. Remember, a little preparation now can go a long way in ensuring your car is back-to-school ready, and a stress-free and enjoyable season.

We understand that fixing major problems can be hard to decypher, which is why we’re here to help. And if you have car trouble in the future, C&G Auto is here to help. Even if you’re not yet due for routine tire maintenance, getting your tires checked can save your vehicle from unsafe handling and poor performance. Contact us and/or check out more about how we can help you at C&G Auto and Truck.