What Should Be Checked Before Driving a Car?
3 Answers
Before starting the car, first check around the vehicle for any small animals or children. When reversing, be aware of any low obstacles that may not be visible in the rearview mirror. Inspect the front and rear of the car for any fluid leaks (including coolant, lubricating oil, engine oil, fuel, condensation water, etc.) under the body. Next, carefully examine the tires for wear or damage, and finally, kick the tires to check if the air pressure is normal. Warm up the car appropriately. Check the specific operating condition of the car, including whether the engine sound, air conditioning, and horn sound are normal. Inspect the dashboard: after starting the car, carefully observe several indicators on the dashboard—whether there is fuel in the tank, if the water temperature is too high, and if any warning lights are displayed. Adjust the driving position for comfort and visibility. After the engine runs for 10 seconds, release the handbrake, and you can start driving. However, during cold winter temperatures, it is recommended to warm up for 1 to 2 minutes before starting. Lightly press the brake pedal a few times to check if the braking system is functioning properly.
Before driving, I make it a habit to walk around the car to check if the tires are flat and look for any signs of oil or water leaks on the ground. After getting into the driver's seat, I adjust the seat and rearview mirror angles first and fasten the seatbelt. Before starting the engine, I check the dashboard for any warning lights and ensure the fuel gauge shows enough fuel. During warm-up, I test the headlights, turn signals, and brake lights to see if they're working properly. Before heading out on rainy days, I must check if the wiper blades are worn out and if there's enough windshield washer fluid. These checks only take a few minutes but can prevent issues on the road. Especially before long trips, I also pop the hood to inspect the levels of engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, and take a look at the battery terminals for any corrosion. Safety always comes first—don’t skip these steps, as they are the fundamentals of driving.
Every morning before driving my kids to school, I meticulously inspect the vehicle. First, I adjust the driver's seat position to ensure comfortable pedal reach and unobstructed steering wheel visibility. I prioritize checking if the rear child locks are engaged and whether the car seat buckles are secure. Upon starting the engine, I immediately check the tire pressure monitoring data and set the air conditioning to an appropriate temperature. I routinely remove any obstructing toys or cups from the dashboard and verify the stroller's stability in the trunk. On rainy days, I test the rearview mirror heating function in advance. My phone stays fully charged with CarPlay connected to avoid distractions while driving. These checks not only ensure my child's safety but also make the journey more relaxed. After forming this habit, each pre-drive inspection feels like completing a reassuring ritual that brings peace of mind.
