Minneapolis Windshield Repair Company Provides Back to School Car Care Tips

Minneapolis, Minnesota (PRWEB) September 01, 2011

As a local Minneapolis Windshield Repair company, we talk to many parents this time of the year who are busy getting everything ready to send their student off to school. With so many things to do, sometimes the vehicle gets over looked. Many college students will be moving away from home for the first time, so it would be a good idea to get that damaged windshield repaired or replaced, windshield wiper blades installed and to make sure the car is in good working order.

"Driving with a cracked or broken windshield is another form of distracted driving, and is illegal in many states including Minnesota." Says Rick Rosar, President of Rapid Glass who services customers in Minneapolis, St Paul and surrounding suburbs,"Depending on your insurance coverage, many windshield repairs or replacements are covered without any deductible or out of pocket expense to you In fact, even if you have a deductible, many insurers will waive it if you have the windshield repaired, rather than replaced."

Replacing windshield wipers helps to ensure your child's safety and it's easy to do yourself. Many auto glass companies will also replace your windshield wipers at the same time they repair or replace your windshield. Don't wait until it's pouring rain or your student is caught in a Minnesota snow storm. With so many distractions out there, trying to see through their windshield shouldn't be one of them.

Tuning up the engine should be done on a regular basis anyways, so doing it now is as good a time as any. Changing the oil, as well as replacing the fuel and air filters are essential in keeping a car running smoothly and are also some of the least expensive things you can do to prolong the life of a car. It's much easier to control the cost now instead of having your student break down on the road somewhere and be at the mercy of a mechanic that may charge you more than their tuition or books for the semester.

A visual inspection is one of the cheapest and easiest things to do. Tires can become worn; belts and hoses can crack and should be replaced before it's too late. Checking the brakes can be as easy as removing a tire, and if you’re not comfortable with doing it yourself, many repair shops will do some of these inspections at no charge. Make sure you check and replace any burned out taillights, brake lights or headlamps. Not having all your running lights working could also cost them an expensive traffic ticket.

It's always a good idea to keep an Emergency kit in the trunk. Chances are your student has always been a short distance away if they had car problems, if they are going off to college, this may not be the case. The first thing you want to check is that they have a good spare tire and working jack. A small tool kit for making some basic repairs including a flashlight, tow strap and jumper cables could make the difference of being stranded and being able to make it home in time to get rested up for that big test the next day.A first aid kit is a good thing to include for those minor cuts and scrapes that may occur while traveling.

Many college students will be far away from home and may be traveling in uncharted territory. One of the best devices that have come along since the compass was invented is a GPS (Global Positioning System)The price has come way down on these in recent years. Most kids have mobile phones these days (which is another great safety device) and many new smart phones have a GPS service included for no additional charge. At the very least make sure they have a good map or map book to navigate through their new surroundings.

Going off to college or just beginning a new school year can be very costly and stressful for both you and your student. In today’s economy with fuel prices on the rise, an ounce of prevention now can save you a pound of trouble down the road. Protecting your most prized possession should be first and foremost, and keeping their car running smoothly is a great start.

For 25 years, Rapid Glass has been one of Minnesota's premier windshield repair and windshield replacement companies providing Quality Same Day Mobile Service. Our Customer Service Representatives are well-trained windshield claims specialists. Rapid Glass will handle all of the paperwork and assist the customer with reporting their loss to ensure they are getting the full benefits their insurance policy provides.

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