Back-to-school season is here in Marin County, and that means more traffic on Lincoln Avenue, busy drop-off zones, and for many families — teen drivers hitting the road. Whether your student is driving themselves to San Rafael High or making the trek to College of Marin, their safety starts with a well-maintained vehicle.
At Easy Automotive, we’ve proudly served San Rafael and the surrounding communities for years as your trusted Japanese auto repair specialists. As the Pacific Sun Best of Marin Hall of Fame auto repair shop, we know what it takes to keep your Honda, Toyota, Lexus, Acura, Nissan, and other Japanese vehicles running safely and reliably.
Here are our top back-to-school car safety tips to give parents (and new drivers) peace of mind this fall:
1. Check the Brakes Before School Starts
Stop-and-go traffic near schools puts a lot of stress on your brakes. Squealing, grinding, or longer stopping distances are signs it’s time for an inspection. Even if your teen’s car seems fine, a quick brake check can ensure maximum stopping power — and safety in busy school zones.
2. Make Sure Tires Are Road-Ready
Bald or underinflated tires can be dangerous, especially during early-morning fog or rain. Check tread depth, rotate tires if needed, and make sure they’re inflated to the proper pressure. Proper tire maintenance also improves gas mileage, which is a bonus for students on a budget.
3. Inspect Lights and Wipers for Visibility
From headlights to brake lights, all bulbs should be working properly. Good visibility is crucial, especially with shorter days coming soon. Wiper blades should also be replaced if they leave streaks or squeak — an inexpensive fix that makes a big difference during wet fall mornings.
4. Test the Battery
A dead battery is the last thing your teen needs when they’re already running late. At Easy Automotive, we can test the battery’s health and replace it if necessary so they’re not stranded in the school parking lot.
5. Stock an Emergency Kit
A small kit with jumper cables, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and a phone charger is a smart addition for any new driver. For extra peace of mind, include a roadside assistance card or app.
Why Choose Easy Automotive for Teen Driver Safety Checks?
We make things easy — it’s in our name. Our friendly team provides thorough, honest, and expert service for Japanese vehicles, so you can trust your family car is safe for your student driver. Whether it’s a simple oil change, a full brake service, or a back-to-school safety inspection, we handle it all with care.
Located at 747 Lincoln Ave., San Rafael, CA, we proudly serve drivers from Novato, San Anselmo, Fairfax, Corte Madera, and across Marin County.
Schedule a Back-to-School Safety Inspection Today
Give yourself and your teen peace of mind before the school year gets into full swing.
Call Easy Automotive at (415) 453-1530 or schedule an appointment online to make sure your Honda, Toyota, Lexus, Acura, or Nissan is ready for the school commute.
Easy Automotive — Marin County’s trusted Japanese auto specialists and proud Pacific Sun Hall of Fame winner. When it comes to safety and service, we make it easy.