Before you wave goodbye to the returning college student, be sure that the car in which he or she drives is ready for the trip and he or she knows what to do in case of a break down.
Don?t entrust car inspection to a hobbyist, said Ed Kriston, approved automotive repair specialist at the Towson office of AAA Mid-Atlantic in Wilmington, Del. It?s worth a fee, and will likely save you money in the long run, to have a car inspected by an approved automotive repair facility. Horror stories abound about those who drive a few miles down the road after an amateur technician?s seal of approval, only to have it break down. It?s even worse when the driver can?t fix the car.
“One thing that is very, very important is for the [person] to know how to change a tire,” said Ed Kriston, “Even how to use a jack is important. If you try to use a jack incorrectly, you could damage the car.”
The best bet is to read the car?s owner?s manual carefully. Be sure that the car?s jack is proper for the car. If possible, the student should practice changing the tire at least once before there is an emergency. Consider these other safety tips from Kriston and his AAA colleague Jeffrey Boone:
» Invest in a fire extinguisher. It?s always a good idea to have one underneath the front seat of the car.
» Check the spare tire. Make sure that it is inflated and in good shape.
» Pack a cross bar lug wrench. It?s easier to use than a lug wrench if the tire needs to be changed.
» Remember, don?t overpack the car. Not only can it cause vehicle damage, but it can hinder steering, brakes and other crucial systems, causing driving hazards. Check the owner?s manual or tag on the driver?s side door for weight limits.
» Carry an emergency kit with a flashlight, extra batteries and warning devices such as flares and reflective triangles. If possible, always keep a charged cell phone in the car to summon emergency assistance.
» Invest in a roadside assistance plan. Some automakers (such as General Motors) have such services. AAA and others also offer roadside assistance.
