School’s in Session: Ensure Your Vehicle is Safe for the Back-to-School Rush

Keep Your Family Safe This Back-to-School Season: A Guide to Vehicle Inspections
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As the school year kicks off, there’s a lot on your plate—school supplies, schedules, and maybe even some new routines. But amid all the hustle and bustle, one crucial task often gets overlooked: ensuring your vehicle is ready for the demands of the back-to-school season.

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Your car does more than just get you from point A to point B. It’s a safe haven for your family, especially during those busy school runs. So, before you start shuttling kids to school, soccer practice, and everything in between, let’s talk about how to make sure your vehicle is in top shape. We’re breaking it down into two categories: what you can easily check at home and what’s better left to the pros.
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DIY: At-Home Vehicle Inspections
You don’t need to be a car expert to perform these simple checks. Taking a little time now can give you peace of mind later.

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1. Tire Tread and Pressure:
Your tires are literally where the rubber meets the road. Check the tread depth with the penny test—insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time for new tires. Also, don’t forget to check your tire pressure; proper inflation not only improves fuel efficiency but also keeps you safe on the road.

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2. Fluid Levels:
Pop the hood and take a look at your vehicle’s essential fluids—engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. If any levels are low, it’s a sign that you may need a top-up or that there might be a bigger issue lurking.

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3. Lights and Signals:
With school buses and kids crossing the streets, your vehicle’s lights are more important than ever. Check that all headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are functioning properly. Ask a family member or a friend to help you verify everything is in working order.

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4. Windshield Wipers:
Back-to-school season often means unexpected fall showers. Make sure your wipers are up to the task. If they’re streaking or skipping, it’s time for a replacement.

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5. Seatbelts and Car Seats:
It’s easy to overlook, but make sure seatbelts are working correctly and that car seats are properly installed. A quick check can make a big difference in an emergency.
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Leave it to the Pros: Advanced Inspections
Some things are better handled by a professional, especially if you want to be absolutely sure your vehicle is in peak condition for those daily school commutes.

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1. Brake System:
Your brakes are arguably the most critical safety feature in your vehicle. While you can check your brake fluid at home, a full inspection by a pro will assess brake pads, rotors, and the entire system to ensure everything is functioning as it should.

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2. Suspension and Steering:
You might not notice issues with your suspension or steering until it’s too late. A professional inspection can detect wear and tear that might affect your vehicle’s handling, making those school runs safer and smoother.

3. Battery Health:
A dead battery is a quick way to ruin a morning. A shop can perform a load test to check your battery’s health and make sure it’s ready to handle the demands of the season.

4. Exhaust System:
Especially important if your car is older, an exhaust system inspection can catch any leaks or issues that might affect your vehicle’s performance or, more importantly, your family’s safety.

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5. Alignment and Tires:
While you can check your tire tread and pressure at home, a shop can perform a more thorough inspection, including wheel alignment, which affects how your vehicle handles and how evenly your tires wear.

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Wrapping Up
Taking these steps now can make all the difference for a stress-free school year. When your vehicle is well-maintained, you’re not just ensuring that it runs smoothly—you’re safeguarding the most precious cargo of all: your family. Whether you’re handling the basics at home or bringing your car in for a professional inspection, you’re making an investment in peace of mind. And that’s something every parent can appreciate.

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