Over 69 million vehicles break down on the road in the US every year.
When you head out in your vehicle, it is always best to be as prepared as possible. We have looked at four essential car tools to keep in your car in case of an emergency. Do you have any of them in your car tool kit?
Keep reading to see if you are prepared for the road ahead and what you need to pack to stay safe.
1. An Escape Device
Your priority after a crash should be to get out of the vehicle as soon as possible and move to safety. However, if you are involved in an accident, you may be trapped inside your car and unable to open the door. Exiting the car quickly when it is on fire or losing oxygen can be terrifying, and if the door is also stuck, you may panic.
Keep the window-breaking tool taped somewhere close to the driver’s seat so you can access it easily. Striking the window in the corner with the device will cause it to shatter and allow you to escape safely.
Some tools also come with a blade that will allow you to cut through material such as clothes or seat belts that might be trapping you. It could literally be a lifesaver.
2. Duct Tape
Duct tape is universally heralded as the most helpful tool to have in any toolbox, and the same goes for your car. Keep a roll in your tool kit, and you can use it to temporarily fix leaks, broken windows, and even damage to bodywork. It may be all you need to nurse you back to the garage and get a permanent fix.
You can also use it in a myriad of other useful situations that are non-car related. Make sure you buy a good quality tape as it will work better in extreme temperatures and be more likely to stay stuck on for longer.
3. Tire Sealant
Getting a flat tyre on the road can be a real pain, but that is made 100x worse when you discover that your spare is also flat. Luckily there is a product that will get you back on the road just long enough to find yourself a shop to get a replacement. A tire sealer is one of the essential car tools you need to have with you.
It will inject a sticky fluid into your tire and seal the puncture just well enough for you to get home. Be mindful that this is only a temporary solution, and you must replace your punctured wheel as soon as possible as the sealant will not hold forever
4. A Flashlight
Breaking down at night can be a scary experience, but you have little hope of even guessing what is wrong if you can not see. Having a flashlight in your car is essential. Not only so that you can perform minor repairs but also help you flag down help or navigate your way if you have to leave your vehicle.
Build Your Own Car Tool Kit
Make sure that you have the items listed above in your emergency car tool kit whenever you are on the road. You can never predict what the journey may hold, but you can always prepare for the worst and hope for the best. If you want some more great automotive tips, then take a look at some more interesting articles on our site.