Don’t Forget the Vehicles on Your To-Do List!

Back-to-school season can feel like a whirlwind. Between school supply shopping, packing dorm essentials, and organizing schedules, there’s no shortage of things to remember. But one important item that often gets overlooked is the car—whether it’s your own vehicle for the move-in trip or your child’s car that will be making daily commutes or heading off to college.

Why Your Child’s Car Matters

For students driving to school or college, their car becomes more than just transportation—it’s their lifeline. From commuting to class and work to making trips home, the last thing you want is for them to deal with unexpected breakdowns. Adding a vehicle checkup to the college to-do list is a simple step that can prevent bigger problems down the road.

●     A pre-semester inspection should include:

●     Oil and fluid levels – fresh oil and topped-off fluids keep the engine healthy.

●     Tires – check tread depth and air pressure for safe handling in all weather.

●     Brakes – reliable stopping power is non-negotiable.

●     Battery – a weak battery will fail at the worst time.

●     Lights & wipers – visibility is key for safe driving, especially during storms.

Think of it as giving your student’s car a clean bill of health before the semester begins.

Don’t Forget Your Own Car

If you’re helping with the move-in trip, remember your own car is also going to be under stress. Long drives loaded with boxes, back-to-back errands, and possible highway traffic can put extra strain on your vehicle. Having your car inspected before the big drive ensures you don’t end up stranded on the side of the road with a full load of dorm supplies.

Take the Stress Off

There’s enough pressure during back-to-school season—transportation shouldn’t be one of them. A quick checkup now saves time, money, and headaches later. With both cars ready to go, you’ll have peace of mind knowing the focus can stay on what matters most: supporting your student’s success.