What to keep in an emergency tool kit for your car

Breaking down or otherwise encountering roadside trouble in Philadelphia, PA, is not something anyone ever hopes for, however it's still recommended that you stay on the side of caution and prepare an emergency tool kit for your vehicle. At McCafferty Hyundai of Langhorne, safety is one of our top priorities, so check out our recommendations for your kit's contents:

• Container: A plastic container with a seal-able lid is your best option, as such containers are waterproof and subsequently protect your kit's contents. Choose a container that fits easily in the trunk or other viable part of your vehicle.
• Jumper Cables: You'll never know when you need them, or have to assist someone else! We recommend outfitting your emergency roadside kit with 12-foot cables.
• Oil: Keeping fresh oil in your kit is always a good idea, as oil is one of the keys to a smooth-running vehicle that's free from the danger of overheating as well as engine wear and tear. Keep two quarts of oil in tightly-sealed containers in your kit.
• Flares: Roadside flares let other cars and trucks know you are broken down or another accident has occurred. Choose flares that last for at least 15 minutes, and keep a minimum of four in your kit.
• Antifreeze: Also referred to as engine coolant, antifreeze is a liquid that prevents your vehicle from overheating. We recommend adding one gallon of antifreeze to your emergency kit.
• Flashlight with Extra Batteries: Breaking down in the middle of the night often means using a flashlight to look under the hood and determine what the problem is. Keep a working flashlight in your kit along with extra batteries.
• First Aid Kit: Whether driving around Philadelphia, PA, or another part of the region, you'll never know when you need a first aid kit. Stock the kit with gauze, bandages, band aids, an antiseptic, aspirin, scissors, adhesive tape, instant heat and ice compresses, and anything else you require.
• Screwdrivers and Wrench: For quick repairs, add a flat head screwdriver, wrench and Phillips head screwdriver to your emergency kit.
• Tire Pressure Gauge and Inflator: Know exactly what's happening with your tires' pressure with a gauge and fix flats easily with an inflator.
• Duct Tape: With so many uses, it's no wonder duct tape is a staple of any emergency kit, roadside or otherwise. It can even work as a quick fix for a tire tear or puncture!
• Rags and Paper Towels: Clean up oil spills and other messes with rags and paper towels.
• Cat Litter: Use cat litter to create traction whenever your vehicle is stuck in snow or mud.
• Bottled Water: It doesn't take long to get dehydrated when no water is available, especially if waiting for help on a scorching summer day. A case of bottled water is therefore an excellent kit component.
• Ice Scraper: Keep snow and ice off your windshield using your kit's ice scraper.
• Granola Bars: A food source that won't spoil easily, granola bars come in handy when hungry and stuck on the side of the road!
• Help Sign: A big help sign is also a good thing to have should you find yourself in an emergency situation.

Build your own emergency kit and feel safer when driving around Philadelphia, PA! To learn about new and used cars and trucks for sale at McCafferty Hyundai, please contact us today. We are happy to answer any questions!