If you drive a vehicle the chances are that at some point in time you will experience some type of break down. Depending on where you break down getting help can take a long time and can be very costly. You may need jeep servicing in Brisbane, but you can’t get any according to your need. So you have to act fast. Here are some tips for tools you should always have available in your vehicle so you can make simple repairs and handle basic on the road break-down emergencies like tire changes dead batteries, or escape from your vehicle in the event of an accident.
The Emergency Automotive Tool Kit
Here are a list of items you should always keep in your vehicle for emergency repairs and to keep you safe for a period of time in the event you get stranded.
Flashlight
Matches or firestarter like a candle in a can
Heat retaining blanket
Energy Bars
Water bottles/drinks
Weather radio
Flares
Reflective safety triangle
Life hammer to cut through seatbelts and windows in the event of an accident
Battery pliers
Multi tool able to strip or bend wire, cut plastic, and includes a multi-bit screwdriver, pliers, scissors and saw
Multi drive wrench
Recovery strap for towing or to help remove debris
Jumper cables
Jack
Spare tire
Tire pressure gauge
WD-40
Duct tape
Tire inflater and sealer kit
Emergency Battery (optional)
Engine coolant
Engine oil
Car Manual
Car Repair Information (AAA number, auto repair shop number, dealer number, insurance reporting number and/or claim forms)
Flat Tire Tools
The most common road break down is a flat tire. We have all been there at one time or another so it pays to have some repair tools in your trunk ready to go in the event you find yourself with a flat.
One of the easiest repair items to carry in your vehicle is a tire inflater and sealer. There are several products such as “fix-a-flat” that can temporarily plug up a leak and inflate the tire enough to get to a service station or tire shop where the tire can be repaired or replaced.
Another option is to carry a spare tire along with a jack and tire iron so that you can change the tire on the road.
Dead Batteries
Another common problem encountered by most drivers are dead batteries that need a jump start. For this type of emergency it is important to have a set of jumper cables in your vehicle. This method does depend on having someone else drive by willing to help. Familiarize yourself with your engine and how the cables need to be attached.
Overheated Engine
Depending on the climate many engines get hot in the summer or when they are running for too long. It is important to stop immediately if the engine is too hot. The solution is generally simple. Add water or coolant to the radiator. Make sure you turn off the vehicle first and allow it to cool down before attempting to remove the radiator cap and add the coolant. Check the temperature gauge to make certain the vehicle is cool enough to drive safely before starting out gain.
Warning Lights
Check Engine Light
Pay attention to warning lights. If the check engine light begins flashing pull over immediately to a safe spot and call for roadside assistance to tow your vehicle to the nearest repair shop.
Charging system light
If this light comes on it indicates a major failure of the charging system. Drive directly to the nearest garage if possible or call for towing.
ABS Light
If the ABS light comes on it indicates a fault in the anti-lock brake system. You can continue to drive and operate the brakes but take extra caution if the roads are slippery. Have the ABS braking safety checked as soon as possible.
Brake Light On
If the brake light goes on and the brakes feel spongy or you can press it completely to the floor stop immediately and call to have the vehicle towed to a repair garage. If the brakes feel firm and they still stop the vehicle then check the level of brake fluid and if it is low add brake fluid. If the light remains on after filling up the fluid have the vehicle checked and serviced.
Oil Light On
The oil light indicates the engine has a low oil pressure. Check the oil level and add oil or have the vehicle towed to a repair station. Driving a vehicle with low oil pressure can cause catastrophic damage to the engine such as a cracked block or head gasket which is very costly to repair. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Author Bio
Rose W. is a certified Automotive technician and owner of a large automotive service company. He writes articles as a way of educating readers on different aspects of owning, operating, maintaining and repairing vehicles. He considers Northstar’s 240752 Service to be a reliable automotive service department among many others. To visit Northstar’s service site go to http://www.240752.com.au/services.
