No matter where you’re driving, from bustling city streets to muddy off-road trails, every vehicle experiences issues from time to time. As such, it’s crucial that you’re prepared for when the dreaded day arrives. Whether you’re an experienced driver or brand new behind the wheel, auto issues require patience, deep breaths, and the right tools. While it’s always best to consult an expert for complex auto issues, there are some roadside repairs every driver needs in their arsenal.

If you’re driving a car, here are some must-have things you need in your trunk:

1.    Spare Tire, Jack, and Lug Wrench

Okay this is a little bit of a cheat, but these three items are vital when stuck with a flat tire. One of the most common types of roadside issues, changing a tire should be a skill every driver has. While tires are strong, they’re not indestructible by any means. If you drove over broken glass, a nail, or your lug nuts came loose while on the highway, your tire may need a switch.

A loose or punctured tire can be a hazard to your safety. Therefore, the first step to preparing yourself is having these items ready to go in your trunk. Second is learning how to change a tire. This saves you from calling roadside assistance or waiting around till your friend gets off work to come assist. Even if you can’t change the tire on the spot, these tools will be needed by whoever runs round to help.

2.    Jump Starter

Ever leave your headlights on and come back to a car that won’t start? It’s not a fun feeling but is one you’ll likely experience at some point in your lifetime. The real kicker of dead batteries is that they always seem to happen when you’re in a rush. Whether you’re late to work or it’s your day to drop the kids off at school; crises are never convenient. However, you can minimize the hassle by being well-prepared with a quality jump starter.

Far more convenient than traditional jumper cables, a jump starter doesn’t require an additional vehicle to boost your battery. Ensure that you’re using this device properly. If not, you risk damaging your vehicle and compromising your own safety.

The method of connecting a jump starter to your car battery is much like that of cables. Here’s a quick step-by-step on how to boost your battery with a starter:

1. First, connect the positive cable (red) from your jump starter to the positive terminal on your car battery. Look for the “P,” “POS,” or “+” symbol to identify the positive terminal.
2. Following this, you’ll need to ground the charge. Connect the negative cable (black) from your jump starter to the negative terminal on your car battery or another good ground location. To identify the negative terminal, look for the “N,” “NEG,” or “-” symbol.
3. Once your cables are connected, you can set the jump starter in a safe position. If possible, you can set it on the ground, otherwise, place it somewhere it won’t become detached, fall, or interfere with the engine.
4. Time to boost your battery! Try turning on your car, but don’t crank the engine for more than 5 seconds at a time. If it doesn’t start with the first attempt, wait 2 to 3 minutes, and try again. After 4 or 5 attempts with no avail, you may need a new battery altogether.
5. If your car starts, give yourself a pat on the back. Then carefully disconnect the negative jump (black) box cable and secure it to the jump box.
6. Finally, do the same for the positive jump box cable (red).
7. Once started, let your car idle for several minutes before taking off.

3.    WD-40

You need this in your arsenal of tools at all times. Some good old-fashioned oil goes a long way in a pinch. From loosening lug nuts, lubricating a creaky door, or switching out a license plate, you’ll be thanking yourself later for keeping this in your trunk.

4.    Windshield Wiper Fluid

Until you’re out of it, you don’t realize how much you take windshield wiper fluid for granted. Vancouver can be a muddy place, especially if you’re an avid off-roader. With the amount of precipitation here, a dirty windshield is the last thing you need. Not only does it compromise your visibility, but the safety of other drivers as well. As this year in Vancouver is set to be a cold one, you’ll want to have a spare jug of quality wiper fluid with antifreeze. You best avoid a stop alongside the highway to clean your windshield off with an old mitt. When you start to get low on wiper fluid, fill it up as soon as you can for optimal safety.

5.    First Aid Kit

This one’s more for you than the car itself but a stocked first aid kit should be a priority. Both in your home and your trunk! Whether you’re in a collision that results in injury, or you get hurt while out and about, a first aid kit can be a life saver for you and your passengers. In case of serious injury, call an ambulance right away. But if help takes a while to get to you, having some medical supplies on hand is never a bad idea.

Looking for an Auto Body Shop in Vancouver?

While these items should always be in your vehicle, sometimes a roadside repair just doesn’t cut it. If your car needs work done to the auto body, from car painting and dent removal to full collision repair in Vancouver, our Super Euro team is here to help. With state-of-the-art facilities, advanced technologies, and expert technicians, your car is in the best hands with Super Euro. Contact us today to get an estimate on your next visit to our auto body shop!