Road-Ready for Back to College: A Parent’s Guide to Car Care

Believe it or not, back-to-school time is here, and parents of college-bound students have a lot on their
minds. Research shows that 56% of undergraduate college students have a vehicle with them while
attending school. Making sure that your student’s car is road-ready for the journey to college is a top
priority. Before your student says goodbye to home sweet home, it’s essential to have these seven time-
saving car checks in place.

1. Comprehensive Vehicle Inspection: Parents, schedule a thorough vehicle inspection for your
   student’s car. It’s like going to a doctor for a regular check-up. A qualified mechanic can assess
   everything from the engine to the brakes, transmission, lights, fluids, and everything in
   between. You’ll be smart to Identify and address these issues before embarking on the college
   adventure. 
2. Battery Check: A reliable battery is vital for worry-free travel. Have the battery checked for its
   condition and age. If it’s older than three years, consider a replacement to avoid any unexpected
   breakdowns during long drives. On average, electric vehicle (EV) batteries can last between
   eight to ten years, varying depending on the make and model of the vehicle. If you observe any
   signs of wear or if your student’s EV is approaching its expected lifespan, it’s essential to get a
   professional inspection and look into battery replacement services before the college semester
   begins.
3. Tire Care: Properly inflated and well-maintained tires are essential for safe journeys. Check the
   tire pressure, tread depth, and overall condition. Don’t forget to inspect the spare tire too! Well-
   maintained tires help with better fuel efficiency and reduce the risk of blowouts.
4. Oil Change: Ensure that the car’s oil is fresh and at the recommended level. An oil change is key
   for the engine’s health, improving fuel efficiency and extending its lifespan.
5. Brake Inspection: Well-functioning brakes are crucial for safe driving. Have the brakes inspected
   and replace worn-out brake pads to avoid potential accidents.
6. Auto Clubs and Roadside Assistance Programs: Parents, consider enrolling your college-bound
   student in an auto membership like AAA or the Goodhood Auto Club. Membership offers
   exclusive benefits, including free unlimited oil changes, a 10% discount on all repairs, and
   priority scheduling for service appointments, making it a fantastic value-add for college-bound
   students. Having access to a dedicated mechanic and service advisor that your student can go to
   is super convenient and some much-needed peace of mind for them, and especially for you!
   And roadside assistance means that help is just a text or a phone call away in case of any
   unforeseen emergencies.
7. Predictive Maintenance with AI Technology: Advanced mechanics use AI and predictive
   modeling to streamline the auto servicing process. This technology allows for timely
   maintenance and early identification of potential issues, preventing major breakdowns and
   expensive repairs down the road. 
   “A comprehensive car diagnostic should be part of a regular car maintenance service. This lets you know
   what could potentially go wrong in your vehicle by scanning all the computers in the vehicle,” says
   Prashant Salla, Founder and CEO of Goodhood. This mobile auto repair service delivers convenient car
   maintenance and repair services directly to customers’ doorsteps. “Just like you visit a doctor for regular
   health checkups, we recommend doing twice a year vehicle health checkups. The technician checks all
   mechanical components and scans the vehicle for any current or potential issues. We highly recommend
   this for your student’s car as it saves you money in the long run and keeps your vehicle safe avoiding any
   unexpected repairs.”
   Sending your child off to college is undoubtedly an emotional time, but ensuring their car is in top shape
   will give you one less thing to worry about. With convenient access to professional car care, your
   student can focus on their academic journey knowing that their vehicle is well taken care of.