Cars are a testament to how far we’ve come in terms of automotive engineering. While modern cars are much safer and more powerful than those of older generations, they are also much more complicated to build. The addition of more complex machinery also yields an increased likelihood that something might break.
While all car buyers are encouraged to do their due diligence before buying a car, we cannot discount the fact that emergencies will happen. These are some of the most important emergency tools that every car owner should have in his trunk.
Jumper Cables
Car batteries usually last for a few years before they need to be replaced. However, sometimes, your battery may die unexpectedly, and it’s during these moments when a jumper cable could save your day. This is especially true on long trips. Nobody wants to get stranded on the highway where it’s going to be incredibly difficult to find someone who has a jumper cable and is willing to help you jumpstart your car.
Air Compressor
Normally, a jack and a spare tire should be your go-to solution for a deflating tire, but if neither is available, the next best thing to have is a tire compressor and a tire sealer. There are many air compressor uses and applications besides merely inflating your tires, which makes them a good investment. Don’t forget to use a tire sealer to keep the air from escaping.
Early Warning Device
Your early warning devices (EWDs) can be reflective triangles and flares. These are meant to warn other drivers that your car has broken down. This is to ensure that your car is visible and this cautions other drivers that there might be an obstacle ahead. EWDs can also be used to convey to other drivers that you need help. EWDs are especially important at night when visibility is low.
Multitool
While you should have your own toolkit for your car, a multitool is an important addition to your survival kit because of the variety of tools that come with your multitool. This diversity makes it a handy tool for minor fixes.
Power bank
A power bank is useful for charging your devices, especially your phones. A power bank will provide your phone with enough power to call emergency hotlines, and may also be used to charge flashlights, tiny USB fans, and lights. Generally, you’re going to want to invest in a power bank that can hold at least twice as much battery than your phone.
Duct Tape
Duct tape is great for quick repairs and for holding things together. Whether it’s a broken side mirror, a hanging headlight, or a faulty door latch, duct tape can serve as a temporary fix for these things until you get to a proper shop and it can also prove useful for survival.
Cars are more complex and more advanced than they were a decade ago. This means that there are more chances that you could encounter mechanical failure. While the best way to prevent mechanical problems is to ensure that your car is properly maintained, this never completely eliminates the possibility that an emergency may happen. Having these tools will not only enable you to help yourself, but it will also enable you to help others.