Every Car Needs an Emergency Kit!

A car emergency kit should be a must-have for every driver, no matter if you just use a vehicle for errands and short distances, or are prone to long road trips. Although an auto mechanic should still see your car even if you're able to handle something with the engine or emissions in the moment, it always helps to have certain tools or supplies readily available. Here's a list of important items to include in a prep kit:

• Fire Extinguisher with Class B or C rating: the ratings reflect the extinguisher's ability to handle agents such as gasoline (B) or electrical components such as batteries (C).
• Jumper cables
• Tire gauge and spare tire
• Extra oil and funnel: oil changes may pop up when least expected
• Wool blanket and extra weather appropriate clothing
• First-aid kit: you never know when bandages may be needed because of general auto maintenance or anything that can happen while away from home
• Basic tool kit: you shouldn't handle a brake job, but it's always a plus to have a couple of screwdrivers, wrenches, pairs of disposable or thick gloves, and pliers, along with duct tape and some bungee cords
• Water and non-perishable snacks
• Mobile charger: always make sure you travel with a fully charged cell phone
• Flashlight: check the batteries, and pack spare ones too. Not all emergency auto repairs happen during the day or in well-lit areas

If something happens while you're on the road, let Auto Clinic of Franklin take a look. Whether it turns out to be a simple tune-up, or something more extensive, we'll review the problem, and make sure that all is back to working order. Our staff has decades' of experience with domestic and Asian imported cars, and can handle every level of automotive treatment. Contact us immediately for your vehicle's diagnosis and repair!

Cars Also Need to Be Ready for Back to School!

School's back in session, and that means new or returning schedules for commuting. Whether you're doing pick-ups and/or drop-offs, are the student yourself, or have handed the keys to a student, it's important that the car be in tip top shape. Here's a list of what you should be checking for your car, that's just as important as picking up the necessary classroom supplies:

Tires: Check the air pressures and treads, and go over each for any damage or potential for damage, such as a stuck nail or piece of broken glass.

Lights: Make sure that every light works and is bright enough. Headlights, taillights, and turn signals need to be functioning, and if the check engine light has been coming on, don't wait any longer to have it inspected.

Cleanliness: Even though it's never a good thing for clutter to take over your car's interior, it's especially apropos for a clean space at the beginning of a new school year. It also allows for any scratches, dents, or rips to be noticed and fixed. Polishing the exterior is a good idea too, and extends to the windows and replacing the windshield wiper blades.

Battery: It never hurts to double check that all's good with the car battery.

Fluids: Check that various fluid changes are in order. You want leaks, as well as fresh levels, to be taken care of.

Heating: Now's the time to check for any necessary heating repairs, so the car stays nice and toasty when the cooler weather sets in!

Emergency Kit: Always have a kit handy, which includes a spare tire, flashlight, jumper cables, and essential tools.

Let Auto Clinic of Franklin run a diagnostic, and see to it that you're ready for whatever road schedules the school year has you on. Contact us today!