Top Ten Car Essentials You Need on the Road
We spend a lot of time in our cars. For some, it’s more of a storage space than others, but the fact of the matter is, most of us have some essential and (very) non-essential things lying around in our cars. From the emergency umbrella, the forgotten jacket or the mixed CDs from way too long ago. So, we’ve compiled a list of top ten essentials that you need to have in your car to help you get out of any sticky situation.
Car essential one: Spare Tire
This is an absolute necessity which is why it’s on the top of our list. Especially when travelling unknown roads or unpredictable conditions. Although accidents happen, you should make sure that you’re fully prepared when they occur. Make sure that your car has a spare tire that fits along with jack and a flat tire repair kit and that your spare is correctly inflated at all times. If you’re required to use a special security key to access the spare wheel, make sure the key is always in your car too.
Car essential two: Jumper Cables
Unfortunately, most of us are familiar with that horrible feeling of turning the ignition and nothing happens. Regardless, when it’s time to start, and it doesn’t – it’s a problem. Make sure you have a pair of jumper cables in your car. It’s unreliable to risk counting on other vehicles to carry one when you have a problem. After your car has been jump-started, remember to drive around for about 15 – 20 minutes to ensure your car battery has recharged while driving. You wouldn’t want another jump start at your next stop.
Car essential three: Tire Sealant
A tire sealant is a great, efficient and effective way to repair a flat tire without having to change the entire wheel. This is a great emergency super-tool, sealing and inflating your wheel until you’re able to have it repaired professionally. With a tire sealant, you simply remove the valve cap, attach the hose and press the button.
Car essential four: Car’s Manual
Your car’s manual should already be in the glove compartment, ready to use when necessary. This is crucial when needing to figure out what all the symbols on the dash mean, or the more detailed intricacies of car maintenance.
Car essential five: Tire Pressure Gauge
A tire pressure gauge might seem unnecessary at first, but one might argue that the water bottle that rolled underneath your seat a few weeks ago is equally unnecessary. Keeping a tire pressure gauge in your car is great, enabling you to check your tire pressure on a regular basis. This can improve handling, increase fuel economy and promote tire longevity.
Car essential six: Duct Tape
There’s very little that duct tape can’t do. This is essential to keep in your car. Even if only for quick and temporary fixes. It’s incredibly strong, water-proof and easy to tear.
Car essential seven: First Aid Kit
Not only is a first aid kit a must-have in any car but is also crucial when going on longer trips. From minor burns, cuts to motion sickness pills. A first aid kit should stay in your car just in case those unfortunate scenarios happen.
Car essential eight: Phone Charger
If something happens and you are stranded on the side of the road, your phone will be the first thing that will help you notify officials or nearby help. Although you should never be on your phone while driving, a phone charger will ensure that you have your phone on and ready when it’s time to use it.
Car essential nine: Map
The paper kind, yes. This isn’t just about the aesthetic of going old school. When the cellphone signal is gone without a trace, or you decided to skip number eight, and your phone is dead, maps will be a saving grace when have taken the wrong turn. There are many handy and easy to use books that contain all the roads and routes of South Africa.
Car essential ten: Hazard Triangle
Although you’re might be very aware of being stuck on the side of the road trying to fix your car or waiting for roadside assistance, other drivers might not always see you. A hazard triangle is crucial for letting other vehicles know that you’re experiencing difficulties and will allow them to spot you early enough, which could prevent an accident.
Luckily Nissan is always there to help. If you’ve enjoyed this read, have a look at our blog for more interesting articles for you and your Nissan at https://www.nissanec.co.za/ or visit Nissan Eastern Cape, we’d love chat and help you with any queries or questions.
Sources:
https://www.nationwide.com/glove-box-items.jsp
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cars/road-safety/essentials-for-your-car/
https://lifehacker.com/30-essential-things-you-should-keep-in-your-car-1263514115
