Take special care that lights, brakes, steering, exhaust system, seat belts, demisters, wipers and washers are all working.  Also

• lights, indicators, reflectors, and number plates must be kept clean and clear
• windscreens and windows must be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision
• lights must be properly adjusted to prevent dazzling other road users.  Extra attention needs to be paid to this if the vehicle is heavily loaded
• exhaust emissions must not exceed prescribed levels
• ensure your seat, seat belt, head restraint and mirrors are adjusted correctly before you drive
• items of luggage are securely stowed.

Warning Displays

Make sure that you understand the meaning of all warning displays on the vehicle instrument panel.  Do not ignore warning signs, they could indicate a dangerous fault developing.

• When you turn the ignition key, warning lights will be illuminated but will go out when the engine starts (except the handbrake warning light).  If they do not, or if they come on whilst you are driving, stop and investigate the problem, as you could have a serious fault.
• If the charge warning light comes on while you are driving, it may mean that the battery isn’t charging.  This must also be checked as soon as possible to avoid loss of power to lights and other electrical systems.

Tyres

Tyres must be correctly inflated and be free from certain cuts and other defects.

Cars, light vans and light trailers must have a tread depth of at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tread and around the entire circumference.

Motorcycles, large vehicles and passenger carrying vehicles must have a tread depth of at least 1mm across three-quarters of the breadth of the tread and in a continuous band around the entire circumference.

If a tyre bursts while you are driving, try to keep control of your vehicle.  Grip the steering wheel firmly and allow the vehicle to roll to a stop at the side of the road.

If you have a flat tyre, stop as soon as it is safe to do so.  Only change the tyre if you can do so without putting yourself or others at risk – otherwise call a breakdown service.

Tyre Pressures

Check weekly.  Do this before your journey, when tyres are cold.  Warm or hot tyres may give a misleading reading.

Your brakes and steering will be adversely affected by under-inflated or over-inflated tyres.  Excessive or uneven tyre wear may be caused by faults in the braking or suspension systems, or wheels which are out of alignment.  Have these faults corrected as soon as possible.

Fluid Levels

Check the fluid levels in your vehicle at least weekly.  Low brake fluid may result in brake failure and an accident.  Make sure you recognise the low fluid warning lights if your vehicle has them fitted.

Before Winter

Ensure that the battery is well-maintained and that there are appropriate anti-freeze agents in your radiator and windscreen bottle.

Other Problems

• pulls to one side when braking, it is most likely to be a brake fault or incorrectly inflated tyres.  Consult a garage or mechanic immediately
• continues to bounce after pushing down on the front or rear, its shock absorbers are worn.  Worn shock absorbers can seriously affect the operation of a vehicle and should be replaced.
• Smells of anything unusual such as burning rubber, petrol or electrical; investigate immediately.  Do not risk a fire. 

Overheated engines or fire

Most engines are water cooled.  If your engine overheats you should wait until it has cooled naturally.  Only then remove the coolant filler cap and add water or other coolant.

If your vehicle catches fire, get the occupants out of the vehicle quickly and to a safe place.  Do not attempt to extinguish a fire in the engine compartment, as opening the bonnet will make the fire flare.  Call the fire brigade.

Petrol Stations

Never smoke or use a mobile phone on the forecourt of petrol stations as this is a major fire risk and could cause an explosion.

Vehicle Security

When you leave your Vehicle you should

• remove the ignition key and engage the steering lock
• lock the car, even if you only leave it for a few minutes
• close the windows completely
• never leave children or pets in an unventilated car
• take all contents with you, or lock them in the boot.

Remember, for all a thief knows a carrier bag may contain valuables.  Never leave vehicle documents in the car.

For extra security fit an anti-theft device such as an alarm or immobiliser.  If you are buying a new car it is a good idea to check the level of built-in security features.  Consider having your registration number etched on all your car windows.  This is a cheap and effective deterrent to professional thieves.