It’s important that your vehicle remains safe to drive at all times and there are basic vehicle checks you can do yourself that don’t take long.
We recommend you check the following at least every month and before you go on any long journey:
Tyres
Check the tread depth. Minimum legal depth is 1.5mm, but the more tread you have the better the grip and the safer you and your vehicle will be on the road.
Check the tyre pressure – correct levels can usually be found on the inside door frame.
Get your windscreen fixed if it’s chipped or cracked.
Check your windscreen washer fluid is full and the spray is working.
Indicators
Turn your hazard lights on and walk around the car – check all indicators are flashing.
Rust
Keep an eye out for rust, especially in the key structural areas of your vehicle such as the pillars that front doors are hinged to.
Lights
Check lenses are clean and not cracked or hazy.
Check your headlights, reversing lights and brake lights are working. Check your back lights by reversing close to a wall so you can see the reflection in your rear view mirror.
Nothing beats a professional check-up. If you have any safety concerns, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic or testing station. Don’t wait for the Warrant of Fitness or Certificate of Fitness to expire.
The professionals take a deeper look at the safety systems of your vehicle, including:
Brakes – to ensure they work correctly
Structure – to check for wear and tear
Steering and suspension – to check for cracks and other safety issues
Safety belts – to ensure the buckle works and check for wear and tear.
