Definition

Pre-drive inspection refers to the process of checking your car for potential issues that might be fatal in the disaster. The inspection usually includes examining key components such as the tires, brakes, lights, and steering, to make sure they work properly in your drive and prevent the accident from happening.

 

 

Purpose

The main purpose of the pre-drive inspection is to avoid potential hazards during the drive. Though car parts are strong enough to perform a stable drive, that doesn't mean that they are unbreakable, and malfunctions of key elements during the drive lead to a disaster.  Therefore, you have to run a pre-drive inspection before you drive, to ensure your safety.

Plus, the pre-drive inspection not only contributes to minimizing accidents but also keeps your vehicle in its best condition. In turn, this improves your entire driving experience and lengthens the life of your vehicle.

 

 

How to inspect

You need to examine quite a lot of things during the pre-drive inspection. Therefore, using a checklist to do this task could prove advisable. Before you begin, park your car in a flat spot, turn off the engine, and then begin the inspection using the below checklist.

Exterior Inspection:

  • Lights: Check if all exterior lights are correctly functioning. including headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights, to ensure they are functioning correctly.

  • Tires: Look for wear or damage on each tire. At the tire's center, the treads must be high enough to ensure sufficient grip. To check the tread height, start from the side of the tire and look for the triangle-shaped indicator that marks the tire wear indicator. Then examine if the height gap between the indicator and the tread is high enough. Make sure the tire pressure conforms with the recommendations in the owner's manual by checking it using a tire pressure gauge.

  • Wheels and Rims: Inspect the wheels and rims for any visible damage or signs of loose or missing lug nuts.

  • Mirrors: Adjust and clean all mirrors to ensure they provide a clear view of the surrounding area.

  • Windows and Windshield: Clean and inspect the windshield and windows for cracks, chips, or other damage that may obstruct the driver's vision.

  • Leaks under the vehicle: Check if there are any leaks under your car. If there is any, that might mean some serious problem, and it is advisable that you contact a nearby technician.

 

Under the Hood Inspection:

  • Engine Oil: Use the dipstick or built-in automobile information system to check the engine oil level and make sure it is between the range of "low" and "full."  Note that serious engine problems can be brought on by both insufficient and excessive engine oil. The same holds true for whatever additional fluids you utilize in your vehicle.

  • Coolant and Antifreeze: Check the radiator's or the coolant reservoir's coolant level to make sure it is at the proper level.

  • Brake Fluid: Check if the brake fluid reservoir is filled to the recommended amount by visually inspecting it.

 

Interior Inspection:

  • Seatbelts: Ensure that all seatbelts are functioning correctly and free from damage.

  • Dashboard Warning Lights: Start the vehicle briefly and check for any warning lights or error messages on the dashboard. Address any issues indicated by these lights before driving.

  • Steering and Controls: Check the steering wheel for any unusual play or stiffness. Test all vehicle controls, such as the pedals, horn, wipers, and turn signals, to ensure they are working properly.