When it’s back-to-school season, everyone feels it - not just the students and parents, but everyone on the road. Traffic in the morning gets heavier as schools are starting, with buses filling the streets and school zones slowing people down. The last thing you’ll want to deal with is any car trouble! Whether you’re a student driver, a carpool parent, or a regular commuter alongside this increased traffic in Clermont, this is a simple car care checklist to follow to keep your car reliable as the school year begins.
Car Care Checklist Item #1: Tires
Tires are your car’s only contact with the road, so it’s incredibly important to pay attention to them.
Tire Pressure: Changes in the temperature can affect tire pressure. Look inside your driver’s doorjamb or car manual for the recommended pressure, and use a tire gauge to make sure each tire matches. Underinflated tires make your car sluggish and harm your fuel efficiency, while overinflated tires impact your handling.
Tread Depth: The tread depth on your tires affects your car’s grip for stopping, which is incredibly important with school zones and increased pedestrian traffic. You can test the tire depth in various ways, such as the “penny trick”, to know if you’ll need new tires soon.
Visual Check: If you notice a crack, bulge, or something stuck, bring it to our Toyota of Clermont Service Center to get it checked out.
Car Care Checklist Item #2: Brakes
Just like the tread depth on your tires, your brakes are incredibly important for situations with quick stopping. Make sure to listen for any squealing or grinding, and if you notice the pedal feeling spongey or that you need to push harder than normal to stop, it could indicate a major issue. No matter what, our Toyota of Clermont technicians always recommend getting your brakes checked out once a year to avoid any problems on the road!
Car Care Checklist Item #3: Fluid Levels
There are multiple fluids that keep your car running smoothly - here’s what to check off your car care checklist:
Engine Oil: To check the oil color and levels, you need to pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and then reinsert it. If it’s low, add the recommended oil type for your car. If it’s dark or sludgy, you’re overdue for an oil change!
Coolant: Car coolant is responsible for keeping your car engine from overheating. Make sure you check when your engine is cool, and you can easily refill the tank at home.
Windshield Washer Fluid: Keep your windshield clear for the best visibility possible in busy school zones and suburban streets. Make sure your washer fluid tank is full before you hit the road.
Brake and Transmission Fluid: Have our Clermont Toyota service techs check these fluids to ensure your car is running smooth no matter how bad the traffic is.
Car Care Checklist Item #4: Lights
With early morning drivers and evenings getting darker sooner in the fall, it’s important to have good visibility on the road. Test out all your lights: headlights, brake lights, reverse lights, and turn signals. Replacements are often inexpensive and easily found at auto parts stores for a smooth installation.
Car Care Checklist Item #5: Battery
Excessive heat can weaken a car battery, so you’ll need to check out the terminals (the metal posts on top of the battery) for any signs of corrosion like fluffy white or green buildup. If you notice slow cranking when you start your car or if the battery is older than three years, you may need to get it tested or entirely replaced.
Car Care Checklist Item #6: Wipers
Just like with your lights, your windshield wipers are important for good visibility while you’re driving. If you notice any streaking, chatter across the glass, or spots left uncleared, it’s time to replace your wipers. Again, stop by Toyota of Clermont for this inexpensive and easy car care checklist task.
Car Care Checklist Item #7: Emergency Kit
More traffic means more chances of delays and accidents. Keep a basic emergency kit in your car with items such as:
Jumper cables
Tire inflator/sealant
A flashlight with extra batteries
A phone charger
A basic first aid kit
Bottled water and snacks (especially if you’re often driving with children)
Car Care Checklist Item #8: Routine Maintenance
Before the school year starts, bring your car into Toyota of Clermont for any inspection, oil change, tire rotation, or checkups that are needed. Shops get busier as more people return to the roads and drive every day, so take care of things now to free yourself from any last minute stress.
Check Off Your Car Care Checklist at Toyota of Clermont!
Back-to-school time brings a lot of stress, so knock out any worries for your car with this easy car care checklist! By giving your vehicle a little attention before the traffic ramps up again, you’ll prevent any small problems from turning into big ones and keep everyone safe. Visit Toyota of Clermont to get your vehicle in top shape by scheduling a service appointment online today or giving us a call at 352-404-7001.
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