SUVs are some of the most popular family vehicles on the road today. It’s essential that you have enough capacity and cargo space to tow everyone around town or on vacation. In addition to that, you want to make sure your vehicle is as safe as possible for themostimportant thing it can carry, members of your family.
Knowing what to look for and how to determine whether your vehicle is safe for your family is critical to your every day driving. Take the following items into consideration when searching for a new family SUV or driving your current SUV today.
Tires
If you don’t already have one, buy a tire gauge from your local auto supply shop. They’re cheap and can save you money on your tires later by making sure you’re driving safely. Driving on over- or under-inflated tires causes unnecessary wear and tear.
It can also impact your gas mileage, cause damage to your wheels, and put extra strain on many other driving components. Tires wear over time, but you can prevent additional wear and tear on your vehicle by making sure these four things are operating smoothly.
Not only should you check your tire pressure regularly, but you should inspect the tread often to make sure your tires are still good. Examining the tread can help you determine the amount of wear and tear on your tires, whether they’re wearing evenly, and even help you spot punctures caused by nails or other debris in the road.
Lights
Always check to make sure your lights work before you leave the house. It doesn’t matter how old your car is. Even new bulbs can burn out if they’re faulty. It’s no one’s fault, but you should always make sure that your brake lights and your headlights are in operation to keep you safe on the road.
Leaks
It’s pretty easy to see puddles and stains underneath your vehicle whether it’s parked in the garage, driveway, or street. Check under your car regularly to make sure nothing is leaking. Leaks can mean straightforward fixes or more complicated problems if not addressed immediately.
Brake fluid, antifreeze, transmission fluid, oil, and many other fluids can leak. When in doubt, take your car to the shop to have a professional take a look.
Wipers
Do a quick wiper check often to make sure they work. Turn them on for several seconds. Most SUVs have back wipers, so make sure that one works too. Squirt wiper fluid and make sure the blades wipe it away enough that your visibility isn’t impaired.
Wipers age quickly, especially if you keep your SUV outside, so performing a regular check will keep you safe on the road if it starts raining while you’re out.
Warning Lights
You may have noticed that turning your key to the accessory switch on the ignition briefly displays your warning lights. As long as they all go out, you have nothing to worry about. It’s when one of them stays on that you should take your car to the shop.
These lights indicate a variety of issues including tire pressure, engine maintenance problems, and anti-lock brake issues. If any of your warning lights are illuminated, it’s best to get it checked sooner rather than later to prevent problems.
There are many other things you should regularly do, like top off your fluids and test your battery. If you pay attention to the way your car is operating, you’ll notice if something is unusual. If you’re in the market for a used SUV for your family, you can trust Southwest Motors in Pueblo, Colorado to ensure your new-to-you SUV is safe and ready for the road.