Maintaining your car’s safety is paramount; even a quick check before you hit the road can prevent breakdowns and accidents.
Here’s a breakdown of essential car safety checks you can perform at different times throughout the year.
Daily Car Safety Checks
- Lights: Take a walk around your car and visually inspect all headlights, brake lights, indicators and fog lights for functionality. A blown bulb can land you a fine and compromise your visibility at night.
- Tyres: Look out for any flat tyres or bulges in the sidewall. Kick each tyre to gauge pressure – a soft tyre indicates a potential puncture.
- Mirrors and windows: Ensure all mirrors and windows are clean and free of obstructions for clear visibility.
- Fluid Levels: Pop the hood and check the engine oil dipstick. Consult your car manual for the correct oil level and type. You can also do a quick visual check of coolant and washer fluid reservoirs.
Weekly Car Safety Checks
- Tyre Pressure: Invest in a good quality tyre pressure gauge and use it weekly to ensure all tyres are inflated to the recommended pressure as specified in your car manual. Don’t forget the spare!
- Windscreen Washers: Test the windscreen washers to ensure they’re functioning properly and the reservoir is topped up with a good quality screen wash solution, especially important for dealing with spring showers and pesky bugs.
- Wiper Blades: Run the wipers across the windscreen and check for streaks or juddering. Worn blades can scratch your windscreen and impair visibility in heavy rain. Replace them if needed.
- Interior Warning Lights: Take a moment to glance at your dashboard. Any illuminated warning lights should be addressed promptly. Consult your car manual for their meaning or refer to a mechanic if needed.
Monthly Car Safety Checks
- Lights: Perform a more detailed check of your lights, including reverse and number plate lights.
- Horn: Give the horn a short blast to ensure it’s working properly. A faulty horn is a safety hazard, especially in emergencies.
- Brakes: Pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations while braking. If you suspect an issue, consult a mechanic for a professional inspection.
- Fluid Levels: Do a more thorough check of all fluid levels including engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid (if applicable) and brake fluid. Consult your car manual for recommended levels and top up if necessary.
Yearly Car Safety Checks
- MOT Test: An annual MOT test is mandatory in the UK to ensure your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards. Book your MOT well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
- Service: Yearly servicing is crucial for maintaining your car’s performance and longevity. A qualified mechanic will check various components like brakes, suspension, air filters, spark plugs etc. and replace any worn-out parts.
- Tyres: Apart from regular pressure checks, get your tyres professionally inspected for tread depth and overall condition. Worn tyres significantly increase stopping distances and pose a safety risk.
This checklist serves as a general guideline. Consult your car’s manual for specific recommendations and maintenance schedules. By incorporating these simple checks into your routine, you can ensure your car is safe and reliable for every journey.
