How to Perform a Basic Car Check Before Driving

Performing a basic car check before driving is essential for safety and vehicle performance. Many drivers overlook this step, but a quick inspection can prevent breakdowns, accidents, and costly repairs. Whether you're a new driver or an experienced one, knowing how to check your car before hitting the road is a vital skill. Enrolling in a week intensive driving course can help learners develop these habits early, ensuring they always drive a roadworthy vehicle.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to performing a basic car check before driving.

1. Check Your Tires

Tires play a crucial role in your car's handling, fuel efficiency, and safety. Driving with underinflated or overinflated tires can cause poor grip and even lead to blowouts.

How to Check Tires:

✔ Tire Pressure – Use a pressure gauge to ensure tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.
✔ Tread Depth – The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm. Use a 20p coin to check; if the outer band is visible, the tread is too low.
✔ Look for Damage – Check for cuts, cracks, or bulges that could indicate tire wear or damage.

A week intensive driving course teaches drivers the importance of tire safety and how to check for signs of wear.

2. Inspect the Lights

Properly functioning lights are essential for visibility, especially in poor weather or nighttime driving. Faulty lights can also result in fines or MOT failures.

How to Check Lights:

✔ Turn on headlights, indicators, brake lights, and hazard lights to ensure they work.
✔ Check reverse lights by engaging reverse gear and having someone confirm they illuminate.
✔ Clean any dirt or fogging on light covers to improve brightness.

Many week intensive driving courses include a lesson on checking lights to ensure safe driving.

3. Test the Brakes

Brakes are one of the most critical safety features in a car. If they feel weak or make strange noises, they may need servicing.

How to Check Brakes:

✔ Press the brake pedal – It should feel firm, not spongy.
✔ Listen for noises – Squealing or grinding sounds could indicate worn brake pads.
✔ Test braking performance – If possible, drive a short distance and apply the brakes gently to check responsiveness.

A week intensive driving course teaches learners how to identify early warning signs of brake issues.

4. Check the Engine Oil

Oil keeps the engine running smoothly by lubricating its moving parts. Low or dirty oil can cause engine damage.

How to Check Oil Levels:

✔ Park the car on level ground and wait for the engine to cool.
✔ Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, then dip it back in to check the oil level.
✔ Ensure the oil level is between the minimum and maximum markers.

A week intensive driving course teaches learners how to monitor oil levels and recognize warning signs of engine trouble.

5. Look Under the Car for Leaks

Leaks can indicate problems with vital fluids such as oil, coolant, or brake fluid.

How to Spot Leaks:

✔ Look for puddles under the car before driving.
✔ Identify fluid color –

• Black/Brown = Engine oil

• Red = Transmission fluid

• Green/Orange = Coolant
  ✔ If a leak is found, seek professional help before driving.

During a week intensive driving course, instructors teach how to identify leaks and what each color means.

6. Check the Coolant Level

Coolant prevents the engine from overheating. Driving with low coolant can lead to engine damage.

How to Check Coolant:

✔ Locate the coolant reservoir under the bonnet.
✔ Ensure the coolant level is between the MIN and MAX marks.
✔ Never open the coolant cap when the engine is hot, as it can cause burns.

A week intensive driving course emphasizes the importance of coolant checks, especially before long trips.

7. Inspect the Windscreen and Wipers

A dirty or cracked windscreen can reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents.

How to Check Windscreen and Wipers:

✔ Ensure the windscreen is clean and free from cracks.
✔ Check wiper blades for signs of wear or tearing.
✔ Refill the windscreen washer fluid to ensure clear visibility in bad weather.

A week intensive driving course teaches drivers how to use wipers effectively in different weather conditions.

8. Ensure Fuel and AdBlue Levels Are Sufficient

Running out of fuel is not just inconvenient—it can also damage the engine in some vehicles. Diesel cars also require AdBlue to reduce emissions.

How to Check Fuel and AdBlue:

✔ Check the fuel gauge before starting your journey.
✔ If driving a diesel car, ensure AdBlue levels are sufficient to avoid engine issues.

A week intensive driving course covers essential maintenance checks like refueling and using AdBlue properly.

9. Check for Warning Lights on the Dashboard

Before driving, start the engine and check for any warning lights. Common warning lights include:

???? Engine light – Could indicate mechanical issues.
???? Brake system light – Possible brake fluid leak or worn pads.
⚠ Battery light – Could mean a weak battery or charging issue.
???? Coolant temperature light – Engine overheating.

If any warning lights stay on, refer to the car’s manual or seek professional advice.

A week intensive driving course familiarizes learners with dashboard warning symbols and what actions to take.

10. Secure Seatbelts and Adjust Seating Position

Before setting off, ensure you and all passengers are properly secured.

How to Check Seating and Seatbelts:

✔ Adjust the seat and mirrors for proper visibility.
✔ Ensure seatbelts are fastened securely with no twists.
✔ Check that child seats (if applicable) are properly fitted.

A week intensive driving course teaches new drivers how to adjust their seat and mirrors correctly to maximize comfort and safety.

Conclusion

Performing a basic car check before driving is a simple but essential habit that ensures safety and prevents breakdowns. By inspecting tires, brakes, lights, fluid levels, and seatbelts, drivers can avoid potential risks on the road. Taking a week intensive driving course helps learners develop these habits and teaches them how to handle minor vehicle issues before they turn into major problems.

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