AAA recently put out a report warning drivers about the potential consequences of ignoring needed auto repairs. Not only does doing so put drivers and their passengers in danger, but also pedestrians and other drivers on the road as well.
1) Tires
When treads get worn and thread, traction is radically reduced. This increases the likelihood of hydroplaning on wet roads and losing traction in the snow. When these things occur drivers lose both the ability to steer and to brake leading to intensely dangerous situation.
To test the tread of your tires, insert an upside down quarter into the grooves of the tire. If Washington’s head is visible at any point, it’s time for new tires.
2) Windshield
The windshield of your car is an important tool. Cracked, dirty windshields impair your ability to see important things on the road. It’s important to keep your windows clean and clear of snow and ice at all times. It’s equally important to make sure there are no cracks that impair your ability to see clearly as well.
Replace broken or cracked windshields quickly in order to maintain clear vision and keep your windshield wipers in good working order. Replace wipers that are overly stiff, dirty, or broken and remove debris that may be trapped in the blades. Keep washer fluid levels stocked in your car so that when dirt, debris, mud, etc. gets shunted to your windshield while on the road, you can clear the windshield well enough to see until you can thoroughly clean it.
3) Brakes
It doesn’t matter how well a car runs if you can’t get it to stop when you need to. Properly working brakes are not just about the brake pads, and rotors. You must also make sure you have the proper levels of brake fluid too.
Inspect brake fluid levels routinely and replace brake fluid every two years. Have your brakes checked routinely as a course of proper maintenance in addition to any time you hear strange noises from your brakes.
4) Suspension and Alignment
Cars that aren’t properly aligned and that lack the right shock absorbers are more difficult to drive. It’s too simple to lose control when being pitched and rolled while driving. Lack of proper alignment can also cause increased and unnecessary wear on tires causing a loss of traction.
5) Fluid Levels
It takes a lot of fluids to keep cars running well. Failing to maintain appropriate levels of fluids can lead to risks of fire in addition to accidents. Inspect fluids routinely when changing oil or if gauges indicate something’s not right. If fluid seems to be going fast, check for signs of leaks and get the appropriate repairs.
These are all steps in the right direction, according to AAA, to avoid maintenance-related accidents and breakdowns. Unfortunately, accidents can still happen. Which is why it’s so important to have adequate auto insurance coverage, whether its commercial auto insurance or personal auto insurance.
