
?We know it can be a little nerve-wracking to send your young drivers out into the world. Even if they're confident, eager, and very safe drivers, we understand a parent’s nervousness surrounding this milestone. So we’re here to help you feel more secure and at ease in knowing your teen is ready for just about anything.
Great Gadgets for First-Time Drivers
This 4-person emergency roadside safety kit gives your teenagers just about everything they’ll need to remain safe in case of vehicle emergency. It also includes some additional supplies for their friends or family members passenging with them. Get it here at Harbor Shop.
This 103 Piece Emergency Roadside kit is another great option for younger drivers who aren’t quite ready to take on passengers, but still want to be prepared. Put together by AAA, so you know for sure this one is efficient and well supplied. Available at Walmart.
This Ryobi 18V Lithium-Ion Cordless High Pressure Inflator has a built-in digital gauge tool. Say goodbye to low-pressure and coin-operated inflation. Your teen can inflate their tire easily and efficiently. Lightweight and easy to store. Replaceable RYOBI brand batteries mean it’s long-lasting. Available at Home Depot.
The Anker ROAV battery jump starter is an indispensable roadside emergency item. Your teen can safely, easily jump start their vehicle without the need for assistance from passersby. Simply connect the cables to the portable battery and go! Easily rechargeable and perfect to stow under the seat thanks to its small footprint. Available at Best Buy.
Changing a tire can be an intimidating situation for new drivers, but sometimes roadside assistance isn’t available and driving on a flat is not advisable. Enter: The Smart Spair Flat Tire Repair Kit! Available from Advance Auto Parts.
Rain-X 2-in1 all season washer fluid can ensure your teenager has a crystal clear windshield with a hydrophobic coating for maximum visibility. You can even add additional support with Rain-X treated wiper blades. Available at Walmart, Target, and most grocers or major retailers.
This high torque impact wrench and corresponding socket removal attachment is a vital tool for those who are strong enough to remove the lugnuts on a car. It speeds up the tire change process for those who know how to do so, but can’t physically maneuver. Make sure to also purchase the corresponding socket attachment for your vehicle’s make/model. Available here for the wrench, accessories separately.
This electric car jack is yet another great tool to have handy for tire replacement. We recommend that all young drivers learn how to change a tire, and these tools can make the process much less daunting. The heavy duty steel jack is meant for SUVs and Sedans, and should not be used on Trucks or 3 Ton vehicles. Connect this to a 12 Volt outlet or to the car battery for operation. Vehicle is lifted to its maximum height in just two minutes and it stops automatically! So you’ll be able to get the job done quickly, efficiently, and safely. Available here on Amazon.
Every driver should also have a good, solid spare donut or tire in their car. Check retailers online or the dealership to order one specifically to match your teen’s make and model of vehicle. Just be sure to remind them that this item is not for long term driving. The key is to get to safety or towing as soon as they’re able once this is installed, and patch the flat tire or replace with 2 new ones ASAP.
Instructional videos on car safety to watch with your teens: