Roadworthiness / Pre-checks
for Cars
for Cars
Car
Roadworthiness / Pre-driving Check
Before you start to drive a vehicle for the first time each day you should ensure that it is roadworthy. Carry out the following pre-driving checks.
Identify the type of vehicle you are going to drive.
Identify the type of vehicle you are going to drive.
- Front / Rear / Four wheel drive
- Fuel type - Petrol / Diesel
- Gearbox type (Manual / Automatic) / Position of gear selector
- Safety Features - ABS / Electronic Stability / Traction Control / Adaptive Suspension systems
- Handbrake operation
- Position of controls and auxiliaries
- Window glass - mirrors and lenses are clean
- Security of carried items - rear seat / boot space
POWDDERS
Petrol - Ensure that you have sufficient fuel for your journey
Oil - Oil level. Secure oil filler cap and dipstick
Water - Radiator water level including coolant / antifreeze mixture
- Include washer fluid levels (front and rear)
Damage - Visual examination of exterior looking for insecure items and/or damage
Electrics - Verify operation of electrical systems
- Lights - Mandatory running lights (main and dipped beam)
- Brake and Reversing lights
- Indicators and hazard warning lights
- Number plate light (rear)
- High intensity lights
- Emergency warning lights (Blue, Headlight flash, Rear red)
- Interior - Instrument warning lights
- Audible warning systems (horn / Two-tone horns)
- Windscreen wipers (front / rear)
Rubber - Wheels - secured (wheel nuts)
- Tyres - tread depth / free from cuts, bulges, tears / pressure / compatibility
Inside the vehicle:
- Switch on the ignition. Note the warning lights. Start the engine
- After systems become operational check instruments
- If any checks could not be completed prior to ignition or start up, do them now
- Carry out a static brake check
- Adjust seat / head restraint / steering wheel
- Adjust mirrors - inside and out
- Visual inspection of all gauges and warning lights
- Seat belt - not frayed, twisted, locks when tugged, fastens and releases freely
As soon as possible after moving off and in a safe place, carry out a moving brake test.
Check gauges and warning lights at intervals during all subsequent journeys taking action if necessary.
Check gauges and warning lights at intervals during all subsequent journeys taking action if necessary.