Back to School Car Maintenance: What Every Carpool Mom Needs to Know

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Back to School Car Maintenance: What Every Carpool Mom Needs to Know
By: Luke Shaff ~ 8/24/2023

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As the sun begins to set a little earlier, and the scent of freshly sharpened pencils fills the air, we know that the back-to-school season is upon us. But amidst the hustle of buying school supplies and getting the kids ready, there's one thing that often gets overlooked - your trusty vehicle. Yes, that's right! The car that's going to be your kids' second home, the one that's going to shuttle them to and from school, soccer practice, and piano lessons. It's time to talk about back-to-school car maintenance.

Car maintenance might seem like a daunting task, especially when you've got a million other things on your plate. But trust me, a little attention to your car now can save you from a lot of stress (and potentially costly repairs) down the road.

First things first, check your car's oil and fluids. These are the lifeblood of your vehicle. Make sure the oil is at the right level and the color is a clear, amber hue. If it's dark and dirty, it's time for an oil change. Don't forget to check other fluids like coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid.

Next, take a good look at your tires. Are they inflated properly? Is the tread worn out unevenly? Remember, your tires are the only thing between your car and the road. Keeping them in good shape is crucial for your safety and that of your little passengers.

Don't forget about your brakes. If you hear any squeaking or feel any vibrations when you apply the brakes, it's time to get them checked. After all, being able to stop quickly and safely is paramount, especially when you're carrying precious cargo.

Finally, make sure all your lights are working properly. This includes headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals. You want to make sure you're visible to other drivers at all times.

Let's take a real-life example. My friend, Sarah, a fellow carpool mom, thought she could skip her car's regular maintenance because it seemed to be running just fine. But one day, on the way to pick up the kids from school, her car broke down. It turned out to be a simple issue of low coolant level that could have been prevented with regular checks. She had to call for a tow truck, and her kids had to wait at school for an extra hour. Not to mention the hefty repair bill she had to pay.

So, as you're getting ready for the back-to-school season, don't forget to give your car the TLC it deserves. Remember, a well-maintained car is a safe car. And when it comes to our kids, safety is always the top priority.

In conclusion, car maintenance isn't just for mechanics. It's for every mom who drives carpool, every dad who takes his kids to soccer practice, and every grandparent who picks up their grandkids from school. So, let's make car maintenance a part of our back-to-school checklist. Because the journey is just as important as the destination.