What’s the first thing you do before you get in a car?
The euphoria from finally owning a car or the urgent desire to get to work before the time expires is undeniably satisfying. After all, cars are an essential part of our daily lives as vehicle owners can swiftly cover distance and save time on the clock for other necessary activities.
However, this invaluable tool can be the most dangerous thing you own if you’re not conscious about vehicle safety standards. People have ended up in negative, unforgettable, and even fatal situations due to their car not meeting vehicle safety standards or being faulty.
For this reason, it’s essential to perform some crucial inspection and possible changes to avoid this unfortunate fate. This article will provide you some tips on what you need to know and do before getting into your car.
1. Inspect the Wheels
In the realm of motor vehicle safety, the first thing to inspect before sliding into your precious car is the tire. These dark, rigid wheels are considered the most crucial part of the vehicle as they connect your vehicle to the road.
Any significant problem with this section of your vehicle will be problematic to your finances or even health. A damaged tire can cause the car to skid or even flip, thereby damaging its structure and possibly hurting you or passersby.
First, look at the tread depth and discover whether it has worn out or is still in perfect shape. Some tire brands have a depth indicator, which helps you know when your tire is unsafe for the road and needs replacement.
Besides worn-out treads, check the tire for apparent damage, bubbles, or a decrease in pressure. While you may not be about to embark on a long journey, these factors are crucial to your safety irrespective of distance.
2. Check the Fluids (Coolant and Oil)
The next factor to check is the level of coolant and oil you have remaining in your vehicle, and these fluids may include Engine oil, power steering fluid, Brake fluid, and even transmission fluid.
One way to perform this check is to look under your vehicle and check for oil or liquid on the floor. If you find none, pop the bonnet open and inspect each oil and coolant fluid level thoroughly.
If you notice that the indicators reveal a low fluid level, you most likely have a leak somewhere and should be checked as soon as possible. However, if you’re in a hurry and can’t wait for the mechanic, you can choose to refill the chamber, get to your destination, then call the repairman, or take the bus and have your car fixed while you’re away.
Never continuously use your vehicle while there’s a sign of leakage as that action may result in further damage to your engine, which may be expensive to rectify.
3. Perform an Open safety Recall Check
For better understanding, a vehicle recall occurs whenever the manufacturer or NHTSA decides that a specific automobile is faulty, fails to meet the minimum vehicle safety standards, and is risky for public use. Once this notice has been issued, the current user must return the vehicle to the manufacturer or dealership for free repairs.
While this factor may seem impossible for you, millions of cars get recalled yearly. In fact, in 2015, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recorded 51.2 million recalled vehicles by manufacturers for essential repairs.
One way to discern if your vehicle has an open safety recall is by accessing its recall information through a VIN check. You’re recommended to perform this check as often as possible, especially when you’re to embark on a long trip with the vehicle. It may be a life-saving action.
4. Inspect your Spare Wheels
The Importance of a spare wheel cannot be overemphasized as it may be the determining factor that saves your day. Being in a hurry to work or any destination isn’t a valid excuse for not inspecting your spare tire, spanner, and jack because you may end up with a flat tire in traffic with no extra, thereby requiring a tow truck.
Therefore, a few minutes before getting into your car, check if the spare tire is inflated correctly, and at the same time, review the pressure to be sure that it’s at the right number. This action is also crucial as you probably haven’t touched the extra wheel for a long time, so the settings may be off.
5. Brake
Lastly, you need to be confident that the brake is in ship-shape before hitting the road because most automobile accidents are associated with this problem.
First, begin by assessing the inner portion of the brake pads (if you can) as they need to be thicker than 5mm. If you notice this component is smaller than expected, you may need to replace it as it is most likely worn out.
Also, check out your hand brake as it may be your saving grace in certain situations. Note that your handbrake shouldn’t click more than four times before keeping your car still. If it goes beyond four, it needs some inspection.
Conclusion
Ensure to keep these factors in mind whenever you’re about to embark on a long journey or rush off to work. Even if you’re in a hurry, try your best to inspect your brakes, tires, and fluids; you’ll never know what you may find.
If you plan to purchase a used vehicle from the owner or dealership, ensure performing a VIN check and read its vehicle history report to be confident that it passes safety rules.
