Being prepared on the road is essential for better trips. Learn about everything you should have in your emergency car kit brought to you by Ace Hi Oil in Southlake, and never be unprepared again. 

What is an Emergency Car Kit?

Even if you have a regular maintenance routine, there are still things that could go wrong on the road, and an emergency car kit can include many things to help you out in case of unforeseen circumstances like:

• A first aid kit,
• Essential equipment and tools
• Necessary paperwork you should always carry.

Read this post to learn everything you need to have in your car in case of an emergency.

Stay safe on the road with an emergency car kit and ensure fewer issues with a regular maintenance routine. Call Ace Hi Oil at (817) 431-6664 for advice on maintaining your car and the best products for its maintenance. Once you’re ready, place an order at AMSOIL's online store.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Sometimes cars break down, especially if we’re talking about older cars or cars you’ve driven for many miles. Of course, you can minimize this with proper maintenance. Still, even then, sometimes you might encounter a situation like a flat tire, an overheating engine, or a dead battery, for which having the right equipment is essential. Here are the pieces of equipment you should consider carrying:

• A tire iron.
• A tire jack.
• An inflated spare tire and in good condition
• A bottle of antifreeze
• Jumper cables
• A siphon pump and gas can
• Emergency reflective triangles
• Fire extinguisher
• Extra phone battery
• Blankets
• A flashlight
• Non-perishable food

Besides carrying the right tools, it’s also essential to know how to use them properly. As a driver, you must know your way around the engine; for example, you should know the location of your car’s coolant tank and how to find your car’s battery. Knowing how to change a tire and jumpstart your car’s battery is also good. A local and hands-on mechanic course can be a great way to feel more confident around your vehicle. Tip: Inspect your equipment every few months to ensure it’s in good working order in an emergency.

Important Paperwork to Have

It might not seem like it, but an essential part of your car’s emergency kit is the paperwork you should always carry. This paperwork is necessary in case of an accident, and you should always have your papers up to date. Keep them in your glove box if a police officer stops you or you’re in an accident. Some of the documents you should always have with you are:

• Your driver’s license
• Your vehicle registration
• Insurance papers and the number of your insurance agent
• Car owner’s manual
• Emergency contact information
• A trusted mechanic’s number

This paperwork can prevent issues with law enforcement, save you from road delays, and allow you to call your insurance company if you need to.

With products like AMSOIL’s Signature Series 5W-50 Synthetic Motor Oil, you can ensure your engine is well-lubricated and in good condition for longer. For more information on this and other excellent products, call Ace Hi Oil at (817) 431-6664 or visit AMSOIL’s online store 24/7 to place an order.

First Aid Kit

When on the road, especially on longer road trips, it’s possible that some emergencies might occur. Having a stocked first aid kit with you can help you handle many of these emergencies. Pack your car’s first aid kit with antibiotics, analgesics, band-aids, and gauze. Also, remember to check the expiration date on the medicine from time to time to ensure it’s in good condition if you ever need it.

“Nice to Have” Items

Last but not least, and especially if you’re going on a more extended trip, some emergency items could make you more comfortable in certain emergencies. These might vary depending on the time of year it is, or the length of your trip, but it’s a good idea to pack:

• A poncho or umbrella in case of rain.
• A box of tissues, a roll of toilet paper, or a kitchen paper towel roll.
• 70% alcohol hand sanitizer
• A change of clothes
• A warm jacket
• A pair of scissors

Although these items aren't essential, they can make an uncomfortable situation much more manageable and keep spirits up until you get to your destination.

Staying safe on the road has to do in big part with your vehicle’s maintenance. For guidance and advice on the best products or maintenance routine for your car, call Ace Hi Oil at (817) 431-6664 or visit AMSOIL’s online store to see their full range of products.