Seven Things Every Car Should Have

Part of being a good driver is being prepared and ready to care for your vehicle. Here are a few essential items that should be in every vehicle:

1. Extra motor oil and a funnel: after I’m done filling up my gas, I like to check my motor oil level. Oil can burn off during regular operation and leave you a little low. To protect my engine, I like to top it off when this happens. I keep a small bucket with several bottles of motor oil in my trunk, as well as a funnel. Don’t use a cardboard box because leaky oil could seep through the cardboard and into your trunk. Be sure to check your manual for what your vehicle’s motor oil type is.
2. Smart jumper cables: if you have old jumper cables, throw them out and grab a pair of “smart jumpers.” These new jumpers have a special surge protector that helps to absorb the electrical flux that runs through two vehicles when performing a jump. This kind of surge will cause lasting damage to your electrical system that may not become apparent for a few years.
3. A tire pressure gauge: making sure your vehicle’s tires are properly inflated is the key to even tire wear, as well as keeping fuel economy high. Don’t know what to inflate your tires to? Don’t look on the tire. Look on the sill of the driver’s side door for your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation.
4. A headlamp with extra batteries: a normal flashlight is good, but a headlamp frees your hands up to work in case there is an emergency like a flat tire. Store it right in the glove compartment for easy access.
5. Blankets: if the car breaks down and it gets chilly at night, you’ll be glad that you planned ahead and brought some blankets. They’re also great for impromptu beach runs.
6. A strong rope: there are a million different uses for a rope. You’re bound to find yourself in a few auto emergencies where a rope could make a huge difference.
7. Duct tape: have this on board for the same reason you have the rope. If you get in a bit of a bender, duct tape could help you to keep the bumper up until you can get to the body shop.

Remember you can always pick up Chevy parts and accessories through Cox Chevy!