At Hawk Subaru in Plainfield, IL, we believe car maintenance isn’t just about smooth driving—it’s also about staying safe and legal on the road. Ignoring essential upkeep can quickly turn into an expensive mistake, leading to tickets, fines, or even safety hazards. Simple issues like a busted headlight or blown tire can attract unwanted attention from law enforcement, and those small oversights can cost more than a quick visit to our service department.
Let’s look at how to stay on top of legal maintenance and keep your Subaru safe, legal, and ticket-free.
Busted Headlights: A Small Problem with Big Consequences
It’s easy to overlook a burnt-out bulb, especially if you don’t drive much after dark. But in Illinois—and nearly every state—operating a vehicle with a busted headlight can result in a traffic stop. Police can issue fines ranging from $50 to $200, depending on the severity of the violation and the county’s regulations.
How to Spot the Problem Early:
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Park facing a reflective surface (like a garage door or storefront) and switch between high and low beams to check your lights.
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Have a friend confirm that both headlights and taillights are functional.
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If you notice dim or flickering lights, it could indicate a failing bulb or wiring issue—both quick fixes at our Subaru service center.
Driving with all your lights fully functional isn’t just about legality—it’s about visibility and safety. It helps you see the road clearly and makes other drivers see you.
Blown Tires and Damaged Rims: A Legal and Safety Risk
Few things catch the attention of police faster than a car limping along with a blown tire or riding on bare rims. In Illinois, driving with severely damaged tires can result in citations for “unsafe vehicle operation,” which often carry fines between $75 and $250, not to mention the potential for points on your driving record.
How to Spot the Problem Before It Strikes:
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Inspect your tire tread monthly. If a penny inserted head-first into the tread shows the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for replacement.
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Look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear—these signal structural issues that could lead to a blowout.
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Watch for shaking or pulling while you drive; these signs can mean your car’s alignment is off and could cause your tires to wear out faster.
Continuing to drive on a blown tire can also cause rim damage, which leads to more expensive repairs. Preventive checks and timely replacements keep your car safe—and legal.
Other Common Legal Maintenance Oversights
While headlights and tires are the most obvious issues, other maintenance problems can also cause police to pull you over:
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Broken or missing side mirrors: Required for proper visibility; fines can exceed $100.
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Cracked or obscured windshields: If a crack obstructs your view, it’s a violation under Illinois safety laws.
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Malfunctioning brake lights: These can also lead to citations and increase your risk of being rear-ended.
A simple multipoint inspection at Hawk Subaru can identify these issues early, helping you avoid unnecessary fines and ensuring every part of your vehicle meets safety standards.
Why Preventive Legal Maintenance Matters
Legal compliance is more than avoiding tickets—it’s about responsibility. By keeping your Subaru properly maintained, you’re protecting yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road. Regular checkups and quick fixes for warning signs help you save money, keep your car in good shape, and protect your driving record.
At Hawk Subaru, our certified technicians understand the importance of both mechanical reliability and roadway compliance. Whether you need a new headlight, fresh tires, or a full safety check, our team makes sure your Subaru stays safe, reliable, and road-legal.
Stay Safe. Stay Legal. Stay Confident.
Don’t wait for flashing lights in your rearview mirror to serve as a reminder that your vehicle needs maintenance. Visit Hawk Subaru in Plainfield for expert maintenance that keeps your Subaru in great shape and helps you avoid expensive tickets.
