Make Sure Teens Know Proper Auto Maintenance

Your son or daughter may turn 16 and get that first car, either as a gift or by working to pay for it. Either way, it is important for your teenager to know how to operate their car correctly to avoid damaging it, and how to properly maintain the car. You may want to make sure your teen’s car has the right Long Island auto insurance for financial protection in the event of an accident. However, damage done by poor maintenance on the part of the vehicle’s owner will most likely not be covered by your auto insurance.

Two of the most important aspects of auto maintenance are the wheel alignment of the vehicle and the condition of the tires. Car wheels may be knocked out of alignment by going over speed bumps and railroad tracks too fast, and hitting curbs and potholes. Cars that remain out of alignment will cause the driver to have difficulty keeping the vehicle driving straight as it will pull to the right or left. Poor alignment may also cause tires to wear quickly and unevenly.

Having tires that are in good condition is important for safety. Tires may wear quickly when teenagers drive too fast and have to hit the brakes to stop suddenly. Air pressure in tires should be checked regularly and kept at the weight recommended in the vehicle owner’s manual. Worn tires may not have enough tread to stop quickly enough when the brakes are applied, especially in rainy conditions. It may be important to educate your teenager on alignment and tire issues to avoid accidents and claims on your Long Island auto insurance policy.

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