Top Things Your Teen Driver Should Know About Cars
Well, your teenage son or daughter finally studied hard, practiced plenty, and earned his or her driver’s license. Now, all he can think about is getting his own car and driving off into the sunset. But does your teen know the basics of car ownership and maintenance. We’re not talking about rebuilding an engine here, we just mean basic car care in Greenville that will prevent your daughter being stranded on the side of the highway. Here are some of the basics every teen driver should know.
Keep an Eye on the Gauges
The main gauge parents want their teens to keep an eye on is the speedometer, though it may actually be the least likely to get their attention. Still, they should know what it looks like when the “check engine” light is on and if the engine temperature is getting too high. If there is a tachometer in the car, teach them what the red line means and how to tell if the engine is revving strangely. Of course, the gas gauge is of utmost importance, and you should let them know how to tell when it’s time to stop at the gas station.
Tire Treatment
The tires on any car or truck have their own set of requirements for car care in Greenville. Show your teen how to administer a “penny test” to measure the amount of tire tread remaining to make sure it is safe. If you notice the tread running thin, be sure to bring it to their attention. Also, tires should be routinely alternated to ensure even wear. It’s absolutely vital that your teen driver be able to change a tire on their vehicle. Show him or her how to do it once, then let them give it a shot.
Eye on Fluids
Be sure to pop the hood on the vehicle and get your child acquainted with what’s inside. He or she should know where the battery is, how to put water in the radiator, and how to measure and refill the engine oil receptacle. Speaking of oil, make sure your teen follows the proper schedule of getting the vehicle’s oil changed. He or she should take it to a reputable shop offering car care in Greenville, and the teen should stay with the car to make sure the service station changes the filters and adds new oil.
Cold Weather Care
Modern cars don’t really need to be warmed up on cold mornings any more, but teens should know it is much safer to allow the windshield to become completely clear before trying to drive. Not only will letting the car run for a few minutes warm up the heater and window defroster, it will get the fluids flowing in the engine. If your teen is likely to need to clear the windshield of snow or ice, make sure they use a scraper, not something that could scratch the window or hot water that could crack the window.
Having a teen driver in your family can be a bit nerve-racking, but it also is a good teaching opportunity. Take a few minutes to teach them basic car care in Greenville. You’ll be glad you did!
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