What Should I Have In My Emergency Car Kit?

June 30, 2023
What Should I Have In My Emergency Car Kit?

Everything You Need To Know To Build Your Own Emergency Car Kit

Although emergency car kits are important, they might not be at the forefront of your mind. Mainly because you’re not sure what to even put in an emergency car kit, and that’s okay. That’s where we come in. It’s simple, really. Anything you think you might need in case of an emergency, throw it in there. But if you still want a little more detailed description of what would be helpful, keep on reading.


Automotive Supplies


Naturally, since this is an emergency kit for cars, you’ll want to throw in some automotive supplies in case your car is broken down. Most cars come with a spare tire , jack, and tire iron, but it is important that you can easily locate these items in the event of a flat. If your car doesn’t have these readily available, you should probably find time to buy them. You should also have jumper cables, a quart of oil, at least a gallon of coolant, a tire pressure gauge , tire sealant and inflator, and a shovel or spade in case you need to dig your vehicle out. These will all give you the proper tools to help in the event of a breakdown!


Breakdowns are the only emergencies that happen on the road. There are other accidents including those that don’t involve people that can happen. It is also recommended that your emergency car kit include a waterproof tarp for covering windows, garbage bags, zip ties, and tie downs.


People Supplies


You also want to be properly prepared for yourself and others in the event of a breakdown, so here’s a list of supplies that will be helpful to include in your emergency kit as well:

 

  • A first-aid kit (complete with bandages, antiseptic wipes or cream, gauze, sterile gloves, etc.)
  • Blankets (can be placed in space bags to save room)
  • A flashlight with extra batteries (your smartphone has a flashlight built in, but a spare could become useful to conserve your phone’s battery)
  • A tool kit with items such as an adjustable wrench, pliers, and a pocket knife
  • Paper towels or rags (rags are more environmentally conscious)
  • Energy or granola bars (keep these within easy access to you and passengers)
  • Bottled water (again, single-use plastic water bottles can often be harmful to you; try purchasing a cheap variety of reusable ones to keep in your car)
  • Pen and paper in the event you need to write a note
  • Keep in mind that your emergency kit is not limited to these items. You can add anything you think you may want or need in the event of an emergency. We just want to make sure you stay safe and are back on the road as soon as possible!

 

Warning Supplies


These are especially important to ensure oncoming traffic can see you on the side of the road in case you’ve broken down at night. You can purchase LED flares and triangle reflector signs to help draw attention to your vehicle. Please execute caution as you wait for help, especially when in an unfamiliar area. Remain in your car with the doors locked if it’s safe to do so. Your safety will always be our priority. While we hope this never happens, we want you to be properly prepared and safe if it does.


Team Ryan Automotive


Aside from recommending this emergency car kit, Team Ryan Automotive also works tirelessly to maintain and repair automobiles to ensure they remain safe and reliable while on the road. We have two locations in Georgia. You can reach our Buford shop by calling (678) 765-7926 or our Cumming shop by calling (678) 341-9602. For more information or to schedule an appointment online visit our online scheduler now.



By Dan Ryan May 21, 2025
How Essential Is a Summer Emergency Kit?
By Dan Ryan May 9, 2025
Summer heat affects every part of your car, but your tires are especially vulnerable. The hot pavement, rising internal pressure, and long drives can all contribute to tire failure. At Team Ryan Automotive, we want to make sure your tires stay safe and road-ready all season. Here is how summer heat impacts your tires and what you can do to protect them. 1. Increased Air Pressure As temperatures rise, so does the air pressure inside your tires. For every 10-degree increase in temperature, tire pressure can rise by one to two pounds per square inch (PSI). Overinflation can cause tires to wear unevenly and increase the risk of a blowout. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it according to your vehicle’s recommended levels. 2. Faster Tread Wear Heat softens rubber, making it wear down more quickly. This is especially true if you are driving at high speeds on hot asphalt. Inspect your tires weekly during the summer for signs of excessive or uneven tread wear. If you notice balding or sidewall damage, it is time for a replacement. 3. Risk of Blowouts Blowouts are more common in summer because the combination of high speed, high pressure, and worn tires creates the perfect storm. To reduce your risk, avoid overloading your vehicle, maintain proper tire pressure, and replace old or worn tires as soon as needed. 4. Importance of Tire Rotation Rotating your tires helps them wear evenly, improving traction and extending their lifespan. Team Ryan Automotive recommends rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This simple step can save you money and help keep your vehicle safe. 5. Alignment and Balancing Improper wheel alignment or unbalanced tires can cause uneven wear and strain on your suspension. If your vehicle pulls to one side or your steering wheel vibrates at high speeds, schedule a wheel alignment and tire balancing service. This can enhance tire performance and improve ride comfort. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for Tire Safety Tire safety is essential for your comfort, performance, and protection. If you are not sure about the condition of your tires, let our experts take a look. We offer tire inspections, pressure adjustments, rotations, alignments, and tire replacements. Whether you are commuting around town or planning a summer getaway, we will make sure your tires are ready for the heat. Keep your summer rolling smoothly with tire care you can trust. Schedule your tire service today at Team Ryan Automotive.
By Dan Ryan May 9, 2025
Summer road trips are a classic American tradition. Whether you are headed to the beach, the mountains, or your favorite theme park, the journey should be just as enjoyable as the destination. To help you avoid unexpected delays and make the most of your trip, here are five key vehicle preparation tips from Team Ryan Automotive. 1. Start with an Oil Change Fresh oil helps your engine stay cool, reduces friction, and supports fuel efficiency. If your oil is dirty or your last change was more than 3,000 miles ago, schedule an oil change before your trip. Remember, all TRA oil changes come with our complimentary Standard Vehicle Inspection. 2. Inspect Tires for Wear and Pressure Proper tire maintenance is essential for road safety. Check the tread depth to ensure there is enough grip, especially if you expect rain. Look for cracks, bulges, or signs of dry rot that could lead to blowouts. Finally, make sure all four tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Do not forget to check the spare tire too. 3. Test Your Battery and Charging System No one wants to deal with a dead battery in the middle of a road trip. Summer heat can weaken your battery and stress your alternator. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for a battery test and charging system inspection. If your battery is nearing the end of its life, we will recommend a replacement to keep you powered up. 4. Check Brakes and Brake Fluid Reliable brakes are vital for a safe trip. Listen for squeaking or grinding when braking and watch for a spongy pedal feel. These could be signs that your brake pads or fluid need attention. Let us perform a full brake inspection to make sure your vehicle is ready for any driving condition. 5. Prepare Your Emergency Kit Every road trip should include an emergency kit. Stock it with jumper cables, a flashlight, basic tools, bottled water, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable snacks. Having these items on hand can help you handle unexpected delays or mechanical issues more comfortably. Bonus Tip: Schedule a Pre-Trip Inspection Before hitting the road, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a pre-trip inspection . Our certified technicians will check your fluids, belts, hoses, tires, and more. We will catch small issues before they become trip-ending problems. Enjoy Peace of Mind on the Road A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to summer travel. Our team is here to help you enjoy your road trip with fewer surprises and more smiles. Schedule your service visit today and travel with peace of mind.
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