Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 2: Short Trips
• Method 2 of 2: Long Trips
• Tips
• Warnings

Driving is one of the potentially most dangerous things people do, but you can prevent certain problems if you know how to check your car before you drive. Visual inspection can prevent a flat tire accident and many other potential hazards.

Steps

Method 1 of 2: Short Trips

1. 1 Look under the car and check for leaks. Driving with leaking fluid could cause the steering, brakes or radiator to malfunction.
2. 2 Check that the tires are fully inflated and that they are not damaged or worn. In the worst case, a burst tire can turn you into an accident.
3. 3 Have someone stand behind the car and check the headlights. Start the car and turn on the turn signals, then apply the brakes and switch to reverse speed so that the inspector can see if everything is in order with the rear lights.
   • Ask the inspector to stand in front of the car, then turn on the headlights and turn signals.
4. 4 Check the rear seats to make sure no one is hiding in there. Car robbers sometimes hide in the back seat, and a surprise awaits the driver when the car starts to move.
5. 5 Check windows for good visibility. Check the mirrors to make sure they are positioned to give the best visibility to the road.
6. 6 You need to know what the gauges on your dashboard look like when everything is working correctly. Check the sensors every time you start the car. Check the engine temperature sensor after it has warmed up.
7. 7 Check your ventilation, heating and air conditioning systems to make sure they are working and you can clean misted or frozen glass as needed.

Method 2 of 2: Long Trips

1. 1 Check the fluids in the machine periodically. Check oil weekly. Check brake fluid, power steering fluid, and engine coolant every month or before a long ride to make sure they are filled with sufficient quantities. Check fluids when the engine is cold. Refill with glass cleaner if necessary.
   • Read the user manual for instructions on how to test fluids. Engine fluid levels - including oil, brake fluid, and power steering fluid - are easy to check using the dipsticks located under the hood. Engine coolant is visible in a plastic container away from the radiator on newer car models.
2. 2 Check the battery before riding. While it is possible to have a mechanic check the battery, you yourself may notice obvious signs of corrosion around the edges or signs of cracks or leaks. If you notice any problem, repair or replace the battery immediately.
3. 3 Turn on the windshield wipers and spray to check that they are working.
4. 4 Check the air filter before a long ride as it can affect fluid efficiency and engine performance.
5. 5 Make sure the spare tire is inflated and in working order, and that you have a jack. It's good to check this periodically, even if you're not going on a long trip.

Tips

• Drivers going on a long trip can check their vehicle at a car service. Have a workshop or a mechanic also check the steering, suspension and drive chain.

Warnings

• If you notice unusual odors, or if the fluid is consumed in larger quantities than usual, go through a mechanical check immediately.