Basic Maintenance Tools to Keep in your Car

Car breakdowns can happen at any time or place. While we all hope our vehicle will stay problem-free and healthy, some car problems are unavoidable and having a few basic tools on hand can better help you handle the issue.

Basic Auto Tools

A few basic car maintenance tools your kit should contain include:

• Tire pressure gauge
• Jumper cables
• Tire patch kit
• Extra bulbs and fuses
• Hand air pump (or one that hooks up to your car's power adapter)

In the event you need to use the tools above, it’s also a good idea to keep a set of mechanic’s gloves and a heavy-duty flashlight with extra batteries on hand as well.

Hand Tools

It’s always a good idea to have a few basic hand tools around. You could need them for simple repairs such as changing out a busted hose or bigger, more serious car repairs. A few simple hand tools you should keep in your trunk's toolbox include:

• Various sizes of screwdriver, or one with interchangeable bits. Try to keep a few different sizes of both Phillip's and flathead.
• Pliers
• Wire cutters
• Adjustable wrench
• Vise grips
• Socket wrenches
• Pocket knife
• Wire strippers

Emergency First Aid Kit

Breakdowns can cause accidents, which could lead to injuries. Even if you do not experience an accident, you could nonetheless suffer minor scrapes or injuries after working on your car. Accordingly, you should keep a fully stocked first aid kit in your vehicle as well. Be sure it includes a fire extinguisher as well as flares or warning triangles so you can alert other motorists when stopped on the side of the road. Keeping your car stocked with these tools will help you get through most roadside emergencies with few problems. To help avoid breakdowns and other issues, keep your car in good condition with regular servicing and repairs. For reliable service you can trust, contact Custom Complete Automotive today to help keep your car in good health.