Is Your Teen’s Car Ready for School?
Back-to-school season isn’t just about new backpacks and class schedules — it’s also the perfect time to make sure your teen’s car is safe and reliable.
Whether they’re commuting to high school or heading off to college, a well-maintained vehicle gives both of you peace of mind. Here's what to check before they hit the road — and how we can help.
What to Check Before School Starts
Cars driven by teens often fall into the “it still runs” category of maintenance — but that can be a recipe for breakdowns or safety issues. We recommend starting with a full back-to-school car inspection focused on:
Brakes: Are the pads worn? Is the pedal soft? Squeaks or grinding sounds mean it’s time for service.
Tires: Look for uneven wear, low tread, or underinflated tires — all of which affect safety and handling.
Fluids: Low or dirty oil, coolant, brake fluid, or transmission fluid can lead to serious damage.
Battery: A weak battery can leave your teen stranded. We’ll test it to make sure it’s reliable.
Lights & Wipers: These are often overlooked but essential for safe driving — especially at night or in bad weather.
Common Issues in “Hand-Me-Down” Cars
Many teens drive older cars that were passed down or bought used. That’s perfectly fine — as long as the car is up to date on maintenance.
Some common concerns we see in teen-driven vehicles:
Overdue oil changes or neglected service intervals
Worn brake components
Check engine lights that have been ignored
Cooling system leaks (especially in high-mileage Toyotas, Hondas, or BMWs)
Dry or cracking belts and hoses
A quick inspection now can prevent a breakdown during finals week — or worse, on the side of the highway.
What We Do at Independent Vehicle Service
At Independent Vehicle Service, we offer a full teen driver safety check for peace of mind.
Our back-to-school inspections include:
A full digital inspection with photos and notes
Honest recommendations — no scare tactics or pressure
Fast turnaround so your teen is ready for school on time
Whether it's a Volvo, Toyota, BMW, VW, or anything in between, we make sure their car is ready to roll.
FAQ: How Often Should My Teen’s Car Be Inspected?
At least twice a year — once before school starts and once before winter or summer break. Regular checks help prevent surprise repairs.
📚 Schedule a Back-to-School Safety Check Today
Before the school year kicks into high gear, make sure your teen’s car is ready. Call Independent Vehicle Service at 505-247-9771 to schedule your back-to-school car inspection in Albuquerque.
Trusted by Albuquerque families for safe, reliable service — because what your teen drives matters.
