Sending Your Student Off to College? Make Sure Their Vehicle Is Ready for the Journey

Sending your child off to college is an exciting milestone. Whether they're headed a few hours away or across the state, one thing every parent wants is peace of mind knowing their student has a reliable and safe vehicle.

Before they pack the trunk and head to campus, take a little time to give their vehicle a thorough checkup. A little preventative maintenance now can help avoid expensive repairs—and stressful phone calls—later.

1. Check the Battery

There's nothing worse than walking out of class only to discover your car won't start.

Most car batteries last 3 to 5 years, depending on the climate and driving habits. In Texas, our extreme summer heat can shorten a battery's lifespan.

Before your student leaves:

• Check the battery's age.
• Have it tested if it's over 3 years old.
• Replace it if it's showing signs of weakness.

A battery test is quick and is often offered free at many auto parts stores.

2. Replace Windshield Wipers

Clear visibility is essential during heavy rain, especially if your student is driving in unfamiliar areas.

Windshield wipers should generally be replaced every 6 to 12 months, or sooner if they:

• Leave streaks
• Skip across the windshield
• Squeak or chatter
• Have cracked or torn rubber

Don't forget to top off the windshield washer fluid, too.

3. Inspect the Tires

Your student's tires are one of the most important safety features on their vehicle.

Before they leave, check:

• Tire tread for excessive wear or balding.
• Tire pressure (including the spare tire).
• That the tires have been rotated within the last 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
• Look for cracks, bulges, or nails.

Properly inflated and maintained tires improve braking, handling, fuel economy, and reduce the risk of a blowout.

4. Change the Oil (If It's Due)

If an oil change is coming up soon, have it done before move-in day.

Fresh oil helps protect the engine and can prevent unnecessary wear during long highway drives.

It's also a good idea to show your student how to check the oil level between services.

5. Check All Fluids

Make sure these fluids are at the proper levels:

• Engine oil
• Coolant
• Brake fluid
• Transmission fluid (if applicable)
• Power steering fluid
• Windshield washer fluid

Low fluid levels can lead to costly repairs if ignored.

6. Test the Lights

Have someone walk around the vehicle while the lights are turned on.

Check:

• Headlights
• High beams
• Brake lights
• Reverse lights
• Turn signals
• Hazard lights

A burned-out bulb is an inexpensive fix that can improve visibility and help avoid traffic citations.

7. Make Sure the Brakes Are in Good Shape

Listen for:

• Squealing
• Grinding
• Vibrations when braking

If the brakes don't feel right, have them inspected before your student leaves home.

8. Verify Emergency Supplies

Every college student's vehicle should have an emergency kit that includes:

• Jumper cables or a portable jump starter
• Tire pressure gauge
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• First-aid kit
• Phone charging cable
• Blanket
• Bottled water
• Basic tool kit
• Reflective warning triangles or flares

These items can make a stressful situation much easier to handle.

9. Teach Them What Warning Lights Mean

Take a few minutes to explain the dashboard warning lights.

Your student should know not to ignore:

• Check Engine Light
• Oil Pressure Warning
• Battery Warning
• Temperature Warning
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Ignoring these warnings can turn a small issue into a major repair.

10. Review Their Insurance Coverage

Before they head to school, review their auto insurance policy.

Make sure they know:

• What to do if they're involved in an accident.
• How to report a claim.
• Where to find their insurance ID card (paper or digital).
• Whether they have roadside assistance coverage.
• Who to call if they need help.

It's also a great time to update your agent if your student will be living away at college, especially if they'll be taking a vehicle with them.

11. Save Important Contacts

Have your student save these numbers in their phone:

• Mom and Dad
• Your insurance agency
• Roadside assistance
• Trusted mechanic
• Emergency contacts

When something unexpected happens, having those numbers handy can save valuable time.

12. Remind Them to Perform Monthly Checks

Encourage your student to spend just five minutes each month checking:

• Tire pressure
• Windshield washer fluid
• Oil level
• Dashboard warning lights
• Exterior lights

These simple habits can help prevent larger problems down the road.

Safe Travels Start Before the First Day of Class

Sending your student off to college is a proud moment, but it also comes with new responsibilities. Taking a little time now to make sure their vehicle is safe and reliable can provide peace of mind for both you and your student.

If you have questions about your family's auto insurance or want to review your coverage before your student heads off to college, we're here to help. Give Karen Ehlers Insurance Agency a call 936-828-2503 —we'd be happy to make sure your family is protected every mile of the journey.