Affordable auto services

Posted on: 29 August 2016

Unfortunately, at some point in their lives, almost every driver is going to be stuck on the side of the road, needing a repair on their vehicle. Whether it's a dead battery, a flat tyres or a more serious mechanical issue, you need the right tools to get through the situation. There are many lists online of which tools and accessories like spare tyres you should pack in your emergency kit, but what else do you need? Here's a look at other essentials that can help:

1. Canopy

If you are stranded for a long amount of time, the hot sun can start to take its toll, and as you wait for a tow truck or attempt to do the repair yourself, you may risk sunburns or even heat stroke. To prepare for that possibility, bring a portable sun canopy. These can be folded up pretty easily and stored in the backseat or the boot.

2. Light

However, in the evening, you may have the exact opposite problem—no sun means no light. This is especially important to plan for if you travel on a lot of rural unlit roads or highways. So that you are prepared, have a light with you. If you plan to do your own repairs, an LED spotlight with a stand or a light you can hook on the bonnet of your car so you can see your engine both work perfectly.

3. Emergency Flares

When stopped on the side of the road in need of a mechanical repair, you should put on your car's warning lights. That alerts other drivers to your presence. However, if you have a dead battery that may not be possible. To ensure other cars don't miss you and accidentally hit you, stock an emergency flare in your car. There are flameless flares that can be magnetically hooked to your car.

4. Phone Charger

Even if you hardly ever forget to charge your phone, keep a spare charger and car adapter in your emergency kit. That way, if you have mechanical trouble, your phone dies and you forgot your regular charger, you can still get your phone charged to make a call for help.

5. Notebook and Pen

Finally, keep a notebook and pen in your kit. If you have to call for help and the first person you call refers you to someone else, you can easily write down the number. Additionally, if you are stranded on the side of the road due to a collision, you can write down the other driver's name and insurance details.

For more information, ask your mechanic (like Timber City Motors) what they recommend.