subject: Auto Repair: The Five Items That Should Always Be In Your Car [print this page] When it comes to auto repair, not all of it can be done in your garage or backyard. If you get stranded by the side of the road or run into an unforeseen emergency, you need to be ready. The best things you can have by your side are your cell phone and the number of a good towing company. It's worth joining a car club service, as well, just to have that extra help when you need it most. But barring that, here are the five items your car should never be without.
Spare Spark Plugs
One wise idea is to save your old spark plugs when you change them out. At least a couple, anyway. Throw them in the trunk or backseat floor and forget about them. If you run into an engine emergency, they might be just your ticket to quick auto repair. Of course, if you have to do this, make sure you change the old ones out at your first opportunity.
Jumper Cables
It's one of the most common auto repair emergencies. Suddenly, because you left your lights on while shopping in the mall, your car is dead. It might not be terribly difficult to convince a good Samaritan to lend you a hand, but you don't want to decrease your odds by depending on them for the cables as well. Not only should you keep some cables in your car, you should learn how to use them. There are some commonly ignored safety precautions regarding a jump off that can lead to dire consequences.
Snow Equipment
If you live in Florida, this probably won't be necessary, but anyone living north of there should be prepared for a sudden snowstorm. This doesn't need to put your car out of commission if you have the right tools. Make sure you have a scraper on hand to remove ice from your windshield. A small shovel is a good idea, in case you need to dig your wheels out of some soft snow.
Flashlight
It's fairly difficult to check under the hood for a problem if it's dark and you don't have a flashlight. Don't count on your headlights to provide the needed illumination, as a dead battery could be just the auto repair emergency presenting itself.
A Clean Rag
It will be challenging to check your oil and fluid levels without a rag on hand. Keep one in your car and you'll be able to perform a quick check of the dipstick, wipe grease off your hands, and do all sorts of things that will keep your clothes from acting as a substitute.
by: Abraham Avotina
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