Must-haves for your car kit
WITH proper care and improved technology, cars break down less frequently these days.
However, even with these improvements, there is no guarantee your motor vehicle won’t suddenly cease to function. If it does, you want to make sure you are prepared to manage any emergency situation.
Auto mechanic and car enthusiast Roshane Holness shares a list of items you should keep in your car, at all times, just in case you have an automotive emergency:
Spare tyre and associated accessories
Most, if not all of us have had a flat tyre at some point. It’s a real bummer, right? The good thing is, with a good spare tyre and the right technique and accessories, you should be back on the road in no time.
To change the tyre you will need a sturdy jack and a lug wrench.
Jumper cables
Having a dead battery is a common car problem. If your battery is still able to hold some charge, a jumper cable should be of some assistance.
Car tools
Always make sure that you have a set of wrenches, as well as socket wrenches to match each bolt size on your car, including the battery terminals; pliers; needle nose pliers; and screwdrivers — these could come in handy.
Flashlight
Unfortunately, car trouble can arise at unexpected hours and sometimes in very dark places. This is why a flashlight should always be in your kit, to provide much-needed light to complete repairs, when necessary. Also, make sure that you always have extra batteries for the flashlight.
WD-40
Just in case there is rust, dirt and grime under or around bolts that prevent them from budging when you attempt to loosen them, WD-40 spray will do the trick.
Fire extinguisher (small)
It’s not often that your car catches fire, but a fire extinguisher will be your best bet to put out flames that could follow a car crash. These small fires, if not immediately attended to, can cause great damage.
Duct tape
Duct tape is definitely a must-have. It is multifunctional and is a very strong adhesive that can hold even heavy parts in place, such as the trunk of your car that suddenly stopped closing, a dislodged bumper that is hanging, or an unhinged fender.
Engine fluids
You are encouraged to check your car fluid levels daily, and to have your car serviced ever so often, but life happens and you just don’t know when something might end up leaking. Just in case that happens, a supply of engine oil, coolant and transmission fluid could help you get to your destination or a repair shop to complete the repairs.
Rope, towing strap or chain
Sometimes the problem requires professional intervention; however, you might not be able to get the assistance immediately, as such you will need to move the vehicle from one point to another. A family member, friend or maybe even a Good Samaritan might offer to tow you to your destination. If this opportunity arises, you will need one of these accessories to connect your car to their vehicle. This should save you a pretty penny because towing services can be costly.
Empty fuel container
Just in case your gas needle stops working or you misjudged just how far the gas in your car can get you, an empty container that can be easily sealed could come in handy. You don’t want to travel with the gas in the car, because it has the potential to be hazardous, especially if there is a crash and a resulting fire.
— Penda Honeyghan
