Ah, Freedom! That’s the feeling a teenage driver gets while driving a car. Actually, it’s a feeling all drivers get when they hit the open road, but teens have a tendency to go a little crazy with their newfound freedoms behind the wheel. That’s why it’s important to steer your teenage driver toward safe driving practices and basic automotive maintenance.
To keep your teen safe on the road, there are 5 things they should look out for. These five things will help maintain their vehicles. Not only will your teen’s car, truck, or SUV be more reliable, but the risk of a car breaking down on the side of the road in an unknown location will be reduced. Here are the five things every teenage driver should look out for:
Oil changes
As a general rule, most foreign and domestic vehicles should have their oil changed every 3,000 – 5,000 miles. If your car has high mileage, you may consider changing the oil every three months. Oil and filter change frequency depends on the type of car, how many miles it is driven each week, and driving conditions. To be sure, check your Owners Manual for specific factory recommendations.
Brakes
Brakes are your vehicle’s number one safety feature. If your vehicle is not able to stop quickly, it is imperative that the brakes get checked. If your auto mechanic tells you that your vehicle needs new brakes, you are smart for following that mechanic’s recommendation. If your brakes are worn out, the tragedy that could ensue will cost far more than the cost of brake system maintenance.
Tires
If brakes are your vehicle’s number one safety feature, your tires are the second most important safety feature. Not only will a good set of tires roll you down the road to where you’re going, but they will also allow you to navigate wet, icy, or snow-covered roads. In addition, every teenage driver should know how to change a flat tire. It’s a simple life skill that everyone should master. Pay attention to your tires. Make sure they have plenty of treads and are evenly worn. Contact a respected automotive tire shop to discover your top tire options, service, and repair.
Check Engine lights
Today’s vehicles are sophisticated computer networks on wheels. Since the technology in modern vehicles is so advanced, the Check Engine light may illuminate for a variety of reasons. When the Check Engine light comes on, your vehicle is trying to tell you, “Hey! Something’s wrong and needs your attention.” A Check Engine light is not to be ignored, so be sure to take the vehicle in for service to a trusted mechanic so you can find out what issue within your car needs repair.
Noises
There are all kinds of noises a car makes, but when you hear odd noises, it’s best to take your vehicle in for inspection. The noises could range from squeaky brakes, trying to tell you they need service, to the mysterious noise originating somewhere deep within the engine. Whatever the odd noises, squeaks, rattles, rubbing, or popping sounds, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic right away to investigate the source.
When your teen’s car needs servicing, bring it to Yorba Linda Auto Service! We are conveniently located at 801 S Lakeview Avenue, Unit G, Placentia, CA 92870. We’d love the opportunity to help your teen driver stay safe on the road and smart behind the wheel. Schedule an appointment for service, and encourage your teen to ask us questions about their vehicle. We’re always happy to educate the next generation of drivers!
