It has been quite a summer so far. More than 100 degrees, record stretches without rainfall, the hydros (congratulations, Kayleigh Perkins), the Blue Angels, West Seattle Street Fair -- whew!

Now, the ads are in the paper and on TV ... back to school sales. Going back to school often comes with something else -- driving.

I've seen quite a few student drivers this summer, and if your son or daughter is one of them, they may be getting a car soon (or at least borrowing yours).

One thing that may get overlooked with the lessons, the tests, the fretting, the pleading and, finally, the joy of getting the coveted driver's license, is the vehicle itself.

Not many high schools these days still offer a course in auto shop, and therefore not many kids understand what it means to take care of your “ride." Oh, they'll figure out how to put gas in it and how to work the stereo, but they also need to be taught how to check to oil and coolant, what the warning lights and gauges on the dash mean, and how to check the lights and other basic safety checks like tire inflation.

What do “bad brakes” feel like? How is the vehicle running?

If your child is going to be using your car or truck, you will want them to be able to recognize when a problem arises. If you are buying or helping them buy their own car, they will need to know the basics, along with learning how to budget for maintenance (regular oil changes, etc.).

This is an exciting (for the kids) and scary (for the parents) time. Cars mean freedom, and they also mean added responsibilities.

I thought about waiting to write this column until it was closer to school time, but then I thought that if this topic hit home with enough readers, that I would set up a little clinic for parents and their new drivers (or soon-to-be drivers).

I would love the opportunity to teach some younger people how to make sure that they have the best chance to avoid being stranded and to stay safe.

Please drop me a line (my e-mail link and phone number are below), and with any luck, we can work together to see a new generation of drivers on the road with the knowledge they need!

Todd Ainsworth is shop manager at Alki Auto Repair and can be reached at todd400@comcast.net or 935-8059.