​Car Care Talk for College Bound Drivers

It’s the time of year when college students are packing their essentials – laptops, linens and desk supplies, while parents add their essentials – advice on staying safe and focused on academics. In all the back-to-school excitement, an important item is often overlooked: vehicle safety.

Parents and students should discuss a plan for proper maintenance and how to handle unexpected issues. Your Neighborhood Auto Repair Professionals (NARPRO) are sharing critical maintenance checks to perform before students hit the road, as well as the top items they should keep in their cars in case of a breakdown.

Tires: Everyone should have a tire pressure gauge in their car and know how to use it properly. At least once a month, tires should be checked when they’re cold. The manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure is typically located on the driver’s door jamb and should be followed, not the pressure indicated on the tire’s sidewall.

Lights: Take five minutes to work together and check all lights and wipers. Dim or burnt-out lights can decrease a driver’s vision and make it harder for others to see your car.

Brakes: Students should know if they hear screeching, grinding or clicking noises when applying the brakes, they need to get to a mechanic immediately. If the brake light is illuminated on the dashboard or the brake pedal vibrates, consult a mechanic.

Maintenance schedule: Review the owner’s manual with your student and explain how good maintenance involves more than oil changes. Batteries, brakes, filters and other items require regular inspection. Before the student leaves, identify a trusted mechanic near the school. Knowing where to take the vehicle in case a critical repair is needed will provide peace of mind for students and parents.

Must-have items include:·

Charged cell phone·

First-aid kit·

Fire extinguisher·

Reflective warning triangles·

Tire gauge, spare tire and tire-changing equipment·

Foam tire sealant·

Jumper cables·

Flashlight and fresh batteries·

Duct tape·

Gloves and rags·

Water and snacks

NARPRO (Neighborhood Auto Repair Professionals): The Neighborhood Auto Repair Professionals (NARPRO) helps car owners find skilled and honest car repair shops. NARPRO only recommends independent, family-owned, full-service auto repair shops that have passed 26 rigorous tests.

Check out the shops in the NARPRO Network here:

Good Works Auto Repair 2348 E. Broadway Rd. Tempe, AZ Call: 480-386-1276

Martin’s Auto Repair 3636 N. 16th St. Phoenix, AZ Call: 602-266-5755

Hi-Tech Car Care 2924 E Thomas Rd. Phoenix, AZ Call: 602-224-0941

Knudsen's Auto Specialists 12804 N 19th Ave, Phoenix, AZ Call: 602-207-8578