5 essential tools to always keep in your vehicle
Written by: Simon Pavey, Last updated:27th February 2023
Driving can be one of life’s great joys, but it can also be a stressful experience if you find yourself stuck in a difficult situation on the road without the items you need to get yourself out of it.
You can reduce your risk of suffering motoring disasters by ensuring your car is always stocked with vital tools. The objects on this list might go unused a lot of the time, but you should always ensure you have them ready for an emergency.
1. Spare tyre and jack
While these are clearly two separate items, they can be counted as one since neither is much use without the other.
Problems with the wheels and tyres are a common cause of vehicle breakdown, so you should always be prepared with the equipment you need to change a tyre, especially just after the winter when potholes are a big problem on many roads.
It’s wise to check your spare tyre regularly so you know it’s in usable condition should you need it.
2. Jump leads
A flat battery is another common reason for cars to break down, and jump leads can be a lifesaver if you’re stranded on the side of the road and a helpful fellow motorist offers to help you out.
You can give yourself extra protection against your vehicle’s battery dying by keeping a portable battery pack in your car. This handy device allows you to get the battery running again without having to rely on another vehicle.
3. Basic toolkit
You never know what situations you might find yourself in out on the road and what mechanical problems your car might encounter, so it’s a good idea to have a selection of basic tools with you at all times.
Having a toolkit in your vehicle means you’ll always have easy access to implements like screwdrivers, pliers and a hammer, which could come in handy if you have car problems of your own, or if you need to help someone else who has broken down.
4. Tyre pressure gauge
Making sure your tyres are always inflated to the correct pressure level is vital for a number of reasons. It ensures you can brake and control the car properly at all times, and also has additional benefits like helping you get maximum mileage out of every tank of fuel.
Having a tyre pressure gauge accessible at all times makes it easy to check your tyres and to know when they need inflating.
5. Empty fuel can
Running out of fuel is a common fear among all motorists, and it can be particularly problematic if you’re on an important journey or if you need to get somewhere in a hurry.
With an empty fuel can in your car, you can feel confident that running out of petrol or diesel won’t be an insurmountable problem as long as you’re within walking distance of a refilling station.
As well as having these items in your car, it’s wise to get your vehicle serviced regularly so it’s always in good condition and you’re aware of any mechanical problems.
You can save money on parts and labour, and also get useful benefits like calendar reminders, with MyService.Expert from Fuel Card Services.
back
