🚌 Back-to-School Car Safety Checklist for Parents

Back-to-school season is here in Madison, and for many families that means early mornings, packed schedules, and a whole lot of time spent in the car. Between drop-offs, after-school activities, sports practices, and weekend errands, your vehicle quickly becomes the backbone of your routine.

The last thing any parent wants is to deal with car trouble in the middle of all that chaos — especially with kids in the back seat and a tight schedule to keep. That’s why this time of year is perfect for a simple safety check. At Dicky’s Doghouse, we’ve seen how a little preventative care can keep families safe and stress-free all year long.

🛑 Start with the Brakes

Think about how many times you stop during the school run. From backing out of the driveway to waiting in the drop-off line, your brakes are working overtime. If you’ve noticed squeaking, grinding, or a vibration when you press the pedal, don’t ignore it. Those are signs your brake pads or rotors may need attention. A quick inspection now can prevent a bigger, more expensive repair later.

🛞 Pay Attention to Your Tires

Your tires are literally where the rubber meets the road — and they play a huge role in keeping your family safe. Worn tread or low tire pressure makes it harder to stop quickly, especially in school zone traffic. An easy way to check is the penny test: if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head when the penny is placed in the tread, it’s time for replacements. While you’re at it, make sure the spare is in good shape too.

🔋 Don’t Overlook the Battery

There’s nothing worse than a dead battery when you’re already running late for school. Most car batteries last about three to five years, so if yours is getting up there in age, it might be time for a replacement. Even if it isn’t, it’s smart to have the terminals checked for corrosion and the overall charge tested before the busy school season begins.

💧 Fluids, 🌧️ Wipers, and 💡 Lights

Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. Topping off fluids like oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid helps your car run smoothly. Fresh wiper blades mean clear visibility during foggy mornings or sudden rain showers. And working headlights and brake lights aren’t just about convenience — they’re essential for keeping you and your kids safe during those early morning drives and late evening pick-ups.

🎒 Safety Inside the Vehicle

Of course, it’s not just about the car itself. Double-check your seatbelts to make sure they’re in good condition and buckling properly. If you have younger kids, take a few minutes to confirm that car seats or booster seats are installed correctly. Studies show that a majority of car seats are used incorrectly, so a quick review can make a big difference in an emergency.

🧰 A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Life happens — flat tires, dead batteries, and unexpected delays. That’s why we always recommend keeping a small emergency kit in your car. Jumper cables, a flashlight, a first aid kit, bottled water, and a phone charger can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one.

🚗 Start the School Year with Confidence

Back-to-school is busy enough without car trouble adding to the stress. Taking care of these simple steps now helps ensure that your family’s car is safe, reliable, and ready for the road ahead.

If you’d rather leave the checklist to the pros, bring your vehicle to Dicky’s Doghouse here in Madison. Our team will give your car a full back-to-school inspection so you can drive with confidence, knowing your brakes, tires, battery, and safety systems are ready for another school year of busy mornings and after-school runs.