You never know where your day will take you. While we hope it takes you through the Starbucks drive-through to a clear and open highway all the way to work, that may not be the plan that life has in store for you. That's why it's best to be prepared for anything, especially when you're behind the wheel. Toyota of Orlando is here to discuss emergency car kits, why they're necessary, and what you should have in yours.
An emergency car kit is an essential to have in the trunk or backseat every time you hit the road. This is especially true if you drive at night, in bad weather, in rural areas, or on the highway. While you can buy prepackaged ones for convenience, it really is more useful (and cost-efficient) to just build your own. Here's what our Orlando Toyota Collision center recommends keeping in your emergency car kit on a regular basis.
A spare tire, a jack and a lug wrench (and make sure you routinely check the spare tire to ensure that it's in good condition and properly inflated)
Jumper cables
A can of Fix-A-Flat or some other emergency tire sealant
A quart of motor oil as well as extra coolant
A tire pressure gauge
A tow rope or strap, especially if you go off-road or drive in snow or ice
A few spare fuses
A small tool kit or at least a multitool
An empty gas can ( you should NEVER drive around with gas in a can in your trunk)
A small, foldable shovel
A roll of duct tape
A few old rags
A car fire extinguisher
A flashlight
Those items should help you deal with any roadside emergencies you might face like a pro - or at least until help arrives - but don't forget about yourself and your passengers. Here are the items we think you should keep in your Orlando Toyota on a regular basis to ensure your comfort and safety.
A first aid kit
Emergency blankets or even regular blankets, especially if you live in an area that sees winter weather
An extra phone charger
Cash (a small amount should do it)
A paper map of your state, just in case
Non-perishable snacks, like granola bars
Work gloves to protect your hands
Hand wipes or hand sanitizer
A trash bag
Pen and paper in case you need to write down accident details, directions, etc.
Once you've built your emergency car kit, store it all in an organized way. Our Orlando body shop recommends utilizing a Rubbermaid storage box or a strong canvas bag to keep everything in its place. Make sure you routinely examine the kit to ensure nothing has expired or needs to be replenished.
We also recommend that you invest in an emergency car tool - one that can break windows and cut seatbelts - but that you keep it somewhere easily accessible, like in your glovebox or center console.
Need to shop for emergency car kit supplies? We're always here to help. Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at (407) 298-6006 and you can shop our parts store for all of your emergency car kit needs. Visit us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall!
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