Car Care for College-bound Drivers
Is your college student heading to campus this month? Whether it’s their first year or last, it’s important to teach the importance of car maintenance and repair, and more importantly, preparation for unexpected problems or emergencies. AAA South Jersey compiled the following tips to share with your college student to ensure they drive back to campus with confidence:
Check and maintain tires
Some quick and easy TLC can keep your tires reliable. Urge your son or daughter to check the vehicle’s tire pressure monthly while the tires are cold and remind them the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure is typically listed on the driver’s door or in the glove box. Don’t forget to double check the spare tire is in your car, too.
Familiarize yourself with the vehicle’s maintenance schedule
College students have busy schedules, but it’s important that car maintenance remains a priority. Parents should make sure their student’s car is checked by a trusted mechanic before heading off to school. Additionally, parents should review the owner’s manual with their college student to review recommended maintenance and service schedules for oil changes, tire rotations, air filters, brake tune ups, and batteries in the event maintenance is required while the student is away.
Locate your nearest car repair facility
Not all maintenance or car issues can wait until the next school break. If an issue needs immediate attention, students should know where the nearest car repair facility is. If you need assistance locating a local, reputable repair center, visit AAA.com/AutoRepair to locate trusted facilities.
Be prepared for emergencies
No matter how prepared you are, emergencies still happen. Pack an emergency kit in the vehicle with the follow basics:
- AAA Membership card
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Jumper cables
- Tire pressure gauge
- First-aid kit
- Basic tools
- Blanket
- Water and snacks
You should add your college student to your AAA Membership. If an emergency arises, AAA Roadside Assistance can provide towing, emergency fuel delivery, Mobile Battery Service, tire or lockout service, and more –providing you and your loved one with safety and peace of mind. See a full list of roadside services here.