As the new academic year approaches, families across Plant City are getting ready for packed schedules, early drop-offs, and after-school chaos. But for some, this season brings a big milestone: handing over the car keys to a teenager for the very first time.
Whether your teen is heading to Durant High School, Strawberry Crest, or Hillsborough Community College, safety should come before the daily drive. That means making sure the vehicle they’re driving is just as ready for the road as they are.
At Quick Lane® - Jarrett Scott Ford, we’ve helped countless parents in Plant City feel more confident about their teens’ first solo trips. Here’s a simple, practical checklist to make sure everything’s in good shape before school starts.
1. Inspect Tire Tread and Pressure
Good tires make a big difference in how a car handles, especially for someone still learning to judge turns and stops. Uneven tread or low air pressure can cause a lack of grip on wet roads or unexpected slides.
Stop by Quick Lane for a fast tire pressure check or rotation. If a replacement is needed, we’ll walk you through the available tire options for your Ford.
2. Check the Brakes
Brakes are one thing you don’t want to take chances with, especially when it comes to a new driver. If the car has been sitting idle over the summer or hasn’t had recent maintenance, it’s a good idea to check for worn pads, rusted rotors, or low brake fluid.
A quick brake inspection at Quick Lane can catch potential issues early and give both you and your teen peace of mind before those daily school runs begin.
3. Make Sure the Lights Work
Visibility matters, especially during early morning commutes or evening drives home from practice or part-time jobs. Check that headlights are bright, taillights and brake lights respond properly, and turn signals work on both sides.
Don’t forget the dashboard and interior lights, they help your teen stay aware of their speed, fuel, and warning indicators when it’s dark out.
4. Top Off Fluids
Low or dirty fluids can lead to overheating, poor braking, or even engine trouble, none of which you want your teen dealing with on their own. Make sure the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid, and transmission fluid (if applicable) are all topped off and in good condition.
At Quick Lane, we can handle this in one visit, and it usually takes less than an hour.
5. Review Dashboard Warning Lights
Those little lights on the dash can cause a lot of confusion for a new driver. Take a few minutes to explain what each one means, like the check engine light, battery alert, tire pressure warning, and brake indicator.
Knowing how to react calmly when a light comes on can help your teen avoid unnecessary stress or make the right call in a real situation.
Get Back-to-School Ready with Quick Lane
If your teen hasn’t been through a vehicle service before, now’s the perfect time to show them the ropes. Let them tag along for a quick oil change or safety check. It’s a simple step that can help them feel more confident and responsible behind the wheel.
At Quick Lane® - Jarrett Scott Ford, we’re here to make sure your teen is ready to drive safely this school year. We service all makes and models, with walk-in and same-day service available.
Stop by or schedule your visit online today. Let’s get them on the road the right way.
