Why Use a Car Safety Checklist?

We spend a lot of time in our vehicles, and it’s a place where accidents and injury could potentially occur. Checking your vehicle can help prevent issues that might cause an accident or breakdown, and you’ll save money by preventing bigger issues later.

Here are a few things to check on your vehicle every few trips to ensure your vehicle is running its best and keeping you safe.

8 Things You Can Check Now

1. Your tires are your car’s contact to the road, so it’s important that they’re in good condition. Check for any holes, bulges, uneven wear, or balding. Be sure to check your tire pressure to ensure it’s within the correct range for your vehicle. Some tires, such as run-flat tires, may look inflated although they are underinflated. Be sure to check your spare as well.
2. Your lights don’t just illuminate your way, they also ensure other drivers can see you. Check your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals are working properly.
3. Check under your vehicle where it has been parked for leaks. Condensation from the air conditioning is normal, but oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, or transmission fluid could be a sign of a bigger issue.
4. Your windshield wipers keep your view of the road clear, so check that they are working properly. Over time, heat and other factors break down the rubber. If they streak or squeak, they may need to be replaced. Be sure to check the rear wiper, if your vehicle has one.
5. If you have any warning lights illuminated on your dash, have a certified technician check them. These help alert you to any issues your vehicle may be experiencing, so be sure to address them as soon as you can.
6. Test your steering by turning the wheel completely to each side in a safe location such as an empty lot. You’ll be able to identify any potential problems with your power steering or other vehicle systems.
7. Pop your hood and inspect your battery. Is there any corrosion around the terminals? Has your car been struggling to start or have your windows been lagging when opening? If so, have a technician check your battery for proper charge and operation.
8. Make sure your fluids are filled, including the oil, windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant/antifreeze.

Roadside Assistance

If your vehicle is older or no longer under warranty, the addition of roadside assistance service can help if you ever have issues out on the road. Whether you’re around town or out in the middle of nowhere, roadside assistance can be there to deliver gas, fix a flat tire, jumpstart your vehicle, or tow if needed.

Need Auto Repair?

Whether you need routine maintenance or more major repairs, you can trust the Drive217 certified service centers. These centers are all fully factory-authorized, so you can rest assured your vehicle will receive expert care from trained technicians.

Find reliable service at any of the Drive217-certified locations below:

• Subaru of Champaign County
• Vermilion Chevrolet Buick GMC
• Worden-Martin Buick GMC
• Champaign Ford City
• Illini Nissan
• Carmart