Wait! Before you get in your vehicle and prepare to hit the road, ensure you have conducted a pre-trip check to make sure it’s safe to drive. Not only can it prevent your vehicle from breaking down, but it can prevent possible hazards and other dangerous events, thus keeping you safe on the road.
There are 15 parts that you should check on your vehicle before you begin driving. This may sound like a lot, but it actually only takes a couple of minutes and can save you from days in the repair shop.
According to ICBC’s Learn to Drive Smart manual, these 15 items should be checked before driving:
Leaks and Hazards - Begin by conducting a thorough visual inspection of the area surrounding the vehicle. Check around the vehicle for any objects, such as debris, rocks, or children's toys, that could potentially damage the vehicle or cause an accident if not removed. Look under the vehicle for any evidence of fluid leaks, such as oil, coolant, or fuel, which could indicate a mechanical problem or create a slippery surface. Check for the presence of animals, such as cats or rodents, that may have sought shelter under the vehicle or in the engine compartment.
Engine Oil - Next, let’s look under the hood, starting with the engine oil. Not having enough oil or using dirty oil can cause your engine to have problems which often end up being expensive. Check regularly using the dipstick: the oil level should always be between the "add" and "full" marks, and oil should be added if it falls below the "add" mark. Clean oil is amber or golden in color; if the oil is dark, dirty, or gritty, it should be changed. Low oil levels can cause the engine to overheat, seize, and fail, while dirty oil can thicken, clog oil passages, and increase engine wear, reducing performance and potentially causing engine failure. Check the vehicle's manual for the manufacturer's recommended oil.
Radiator Coolant - Make sure you have enough coolant, as an overheating engine or radiator can lead to a vehicle breakdown. Check your coolant level and look for any signs of leaks. Some modern cars have coolant reservoirs instead of a traditional radiator cap; add coolant through the reservoir in these vehicles. Others are fully sealed and should not require coolant refills during the vehicle's lifespan. Preventative maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and avoiding unexpected breakdowns; so, have it inspected by a professional at every oil change.
Washer Fluid - Spraying your windscreen with washer fluid when it gets dirty improves visibility on the road, so it’s important to always have it topped up. Washer fluid use is especially helpful in winter when road conditions and mud and salt residue can obscure the windshield. Freezing temperatures require washer fluid formulated for winter use to prevent freezing and ensure functionality. Regularly check and top up washer fluid levels, and use high-quality, winter-specific fluid for optimal visibility and safety.
Brake Fluid - Braking is one of the most important parts of driving. Don’t leave home without checking your brake fluid. If you suspect your brake fluid level is low, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Don’t attempt to add brake fluid yourself, as opening the reservoir can introduce air into the system and cause brake failure. Regular maintenance and inspections of your braking system by a professional, including brake pads, rotors, and lines, are also vital to ensure your vehicle's stopping power remains reliable.
Power Steering Fluid - Power steering fluid powers the maneuverability of your vehicle, and driving without it can be extremely difficult and dangerous. Check the power steering fluid level in the reservoir under the hood. If the fluid level appears low, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic to diagnose and address the issue. Maintaining the power steering fluid level according to the manufacturer's recommendations will ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and prevent costly repairs.
Engine Hoses - A cracked or leaking engine hose can cause significant damage to your engine and vehicle. Inspect them to make sure that they’re in good working condition and don’t have any cracks or holes! Careful: they’re hot! If you discover a leak, ensure no engine fluids get into a storm drain and seek advice from a professional mechanic before driving the vehicle.
Engine Belts - The belts in your engine are essential for powering the steering system and generating the electricity your vehicle needs to operate and charge the battery. Never touch a belt while the engine is running, and if you notice any cracks or fraying, consult a professional mechanic.
Tires - Inspect your tires, ensuring they are inflated to the correct pressure and show no signs of damage. Check the tread depth and replace tires if they are worn down to the wear bars. Inspect tires for any signs of damage. To check tire tread depth using a coin, insert a Canadian quarter with the caribou's nose facing down into the tire grooves; if the nose is visible, it's time to replace the tires. Check the condition and inflation of your spare tire. Remember to rotate your tires regularly to ensure even wear.
Lights - Be sure to check that all headlights, signal lights, and backup lights are working properly and replace them immediately if they are not. It is illegal to drive with headlights or signals that are burned out, broken or damaged. Tip: If your turn signal starts clicking rapidly, it may mean that a bulb needs to be replaced.
Windshield Wipers - Worn or damaged windshield wipers can obscure your vision and prevent you from seeing road hazards and pedestrians. Regularly check your wipers and replace them if they are not clearing the windshield effectively. Oil and grime can build up on your wiper blades. A quick wipe of the rubber blade with a clean, damp cloth can help them last and work at their best. Remove any debris, like dirt and leaves, from the windshield cowl (the gap between the hood and the windshield) to prevent damage to the blades.
Brake Test - Check that your brakes are in good working order. To conduct a brake check, first, ensure no pedestrians or objects are around your vehicle. With the parking brake applied, slowly let off of the brake and gently apply a small amount of throttle to push against the parking brake: the vehicle should not move forward. Reapply pressure to the foot brake. Next, release the parking brake and move the vehicle ahead slowly, then apply the foot brake to check the brake response. If anything does not work as expected, get your vehicle checked by a professional.
Fuel - Check your fuel gauge before and after every trip, factoring in extra time for a fill-up if needed. Leaving your gas tank nearly empty for long periods allows dirt, rust, sediment, and other contaminants to accumulate, potentially causing damage. The motor of your electric fuel pump needs your gasoline to act as a coolant.
Navigation - Getting lost can cause dangerous or distracted driving. Put your route into your phone or GPS and study it before you drive so that you aren’t distracted during your drive. Keep a map in your glove compartment in case your navigation system malfunctions. If you need to adjust your GPS or phone or reference your map, pull off the road and do so safely. In British Columbia, drivers with L (Learner) or N (Novice) licenses are not allowed to use any electronic devices, including GPS, even hands-free, while driving; so, planning your route before beginning to drive is especially important.
Time Management - A less obvious aspect of pre-trip planning is allocating sufficient preparation, travel, and contingency time. Ensure you leave yourself enough time to check your vehicle before you leave. Leave early so you won't be rushed, eliminating the temptation to speed and allowing for unforeseen delays. If you do find yourself running behind, prioritise safety over your schedule and adjust your plans accordingly
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We all want to get where we're going as soon as possible, but taking a few minutes to check your vehicle and prepare yourself can save you in the long run. By taking a few minutes to inspect your vehicle before every trip, you can identify and address potential problems, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable driving experience. Remember, a pre-trip check is a small investment of time that can yield significant dividends in terms of safety, reliability, and peace of mind.
For more helpful tips on keeping your vehicle in top shape, be sure to check out our other blogs on Vehicle Maintenance. If you're planning a longer journey, don't miss our Rider's Guide to Trip Planning for essential advice and checklists.