Teaching your child the basics of car maintenance from an early age can provide them with invaluable tools later in life. If you aren’t sure where to start, the NC-based Charlotte AutoFair Produced by Hornets Nest Region, AACA, has a few tips. Not only will you be passing on information to your child, but you’ll also bond over the experience. They may even ask you to take them to the next auto show.

Auto Show Tips: 5 Ways to Get Your Child Involved in Your Car’s Maintenance

1. Change the Oil

First, ensure you understand how to correctly change the oil and are informed of any potential hazards. Then, you can engage your kids in the process, teaching them not only how to change the oil, but also the oil’s purpose and how to properly dispose of the used oil.

2. Replace Windshield Wipers

This simple task is a great teachable moment. When you need to replace both wipers, you can demonstrate with the first blade and then let your child do the second one.

3. Check Tire Pressure & Treads

Checking your tire pressure is an easy and fun task for kids to do. Show them how to use the pressure gauge on the first tire and let them do the rest. This is also a great time to educate them on worn tire treads using a penny or quarter.

4. Wash the Car

Washing the car is a fun Saturday afternoon activity, but you can make it educational, too. Teach your kids to inspect the car as they wash it, looking for even minor damage like dents or scratches in the paint.

5. Check & Replace the Lights

If one of your headlights or brake lights needs to be replaced, let your child help. First, explain how to determine which light is out, then show them how to replace the bulb.

As your kids get older and closer to driving age, you may want to go more in-depth by teaching them how to change a tire or perform other critical tasks. If you and your child develop an interest in antique cars, you may want to check out the next auto show. You can peruse the collector cars and look at those for sale as well. For more information on this fall’s auto show, visit Charlotte AutoFair online, or call (704) 841-1990.