AutoNation, Inc. is helping families start the school year off on the right track with tips from the company’s car care experts. Backed by a new survey showing that 92% of parents believe routine maintenance is key to safety, the tips are designed to give young drivers the knowledge and confidence to care for their vehicles. The survey was conducted online by Atomik Research on behalf of AutoNation among more than 1,000 U.S. parents of driving-age children.
The survey found that 42% of parents of 15- to 22-year-olds said dashboard warning indicators were ignored for a week or more, including 10% who said vehicle warnings were ignored for three or more months.
“AutoNation wants to help our community’s newest drivers learn the basics of caring for their vehicle while staying safe on the road, two things that often go hand-in-hand,” said Christian Treiber, President, After-Sales. “By providing these educational resources, we hope to support parents and caregivers as they teach their teens the importance of caring for their vehicle and observing safe driving habits.”
AutoNation Car Care Tips
Vehicles should receive a check-up every three months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first, keeping in mind that preventative maintenance saves money in the long run and helps to keep drivers safe on the road.
- Check tire pressure monthly and make sure to have tires rotated and balanced every 6,000 miles.
- Check windshield wipers and replace them every six months.
- Check oil filters and fluids – windshield washer fluids, air conditioning coolant and oil levels should be at appropriate levels before embarking on a road trip.
- Get a computerized battery test to ensure the battery has sufficient power.
- Worn brakes put additional strain on the transmission and tires, so get them checked regularly.
- Prepare a cost-effective emergency and car care preparedness kit to tuck into the center console with a tire pressure gauge, self-powered flashlight, water bottle and snacks, a whistle, emergency blanket, battery operated or solar charged cell charger, pocket first aid kit, vehicle escape tool and car wipes.
Distracted Driving Prevention Tips
According to the National Safety Council, car crashes are the number one cause of preventable death for teens. AutoNation encourages drivers to avoid unsafe distractive driving and to remember to drive first, because everything else can wait.
- Cell phones, snacks, touchscreens, noisy passengers and loud music are a distraction and take a driver’s eyes away from the road.
- While still parked, drivers should program their routes, set up music playlists and silence and put away their phones.
- Ask passengers to operate the radio, GPS and ventilation to ensure that drivers can keep their eyes on the road.
- Limit number of passengers and activity inside the vehicle.
- Speak up if you are a passenger and the driver is doing something dangerous.
Complimentary AutoNation Car Care Clinics underscore the importance of regular maintenance, with simple, hands-on tips to promote safety and prevent costly repairs. In addition to car care tips, clinics incorporate driver safety education led by local community partners on topics from distracted and impaired driving to proper driving positioning, seatbelt usage and what to do when pulled over for a traffic violation or when faced with a field sobriety test. Participants receive a mini car care kit with essential items to support their safety and car care journey. Advance registration is required. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/y767hpue.
AutoNation offers complimentary multi-point inspections along with a vehicle status report, tire pressure adjustment, and fluid top-off from factory-trained and certified technicians. For locations and to schedule an appointment, visit autonation.com.
Survey Method
AutoNation commissioned Atomik Research to conduct an online survey of 1,004 U.S. adults. The sample consists of parents of a child between the ages of 15 and 22. The margin of error is +/- 3 percentage points with a confidence level of 95 percent. Fieldwork took place between June 6 and June 9, 2025. Atomik Research, part of 4media group, is a creative market research agency.
About AutoNation, Inc.
AutoNation, one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States, offers innovative products and exceptional services as part of a portfolio of comprehensive solutions for our customers and their automotive needs. With a nationwide network of dealerships strengthened by a recognized brand, we offer a wide variety of new and used vehicles, customer financing, parts, and expert maintenance and repair services. Through DRV PNK, we have raised over $40 million for cancer-related causes, demonstrating our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of our Associates, Customers, and the communities we serve. Please visit www.autonation.com, investors.autonation.com, and www.x.com/autonation, where AutoNation discloses additional information about the Company, its business, and its results of operations.
