What to Check Before Driving?

[MacBethany]

Here is an introduction to the pre-driving inspection items: 1. Check whether the driving documents and license plates are complete, and verify that the onboard equipment, tools, and spare parts are fully prepared. 2. Walk around the vehicle to inspect the external condition of the body and the integrity of various components, checking for any oil, water, gas, or electrical leaks. 3. Clean the windows and the exterior of the vehicle to ensure the clarity of lighting devices and license plates. 4. Check whether the fuel tank's oil level, the radiator's coolant level, the engine oil level in the crankcase, the brake fluid level, and the electrolyte level in the battery meet the required standards. 5. Inspect the engine fan belt for signs of aging, cracking, or fraying, and ensure the tension is appropriate. 6. Check the tire condition and pressure. Remove any debris or small stones stuck between the tires or in the treads. The tire pressure should comply with regulations. Also, ensure the spare tire is properly secured. 7. Check the steering mechanism for flexibility and inspect the connections of the tie rods for any looseness. 8. Inspect the wheel hub bearings and kingpins for looseness, and ensure the nuts on the tires, half-shafts, drive shafts, and leaf springs are tight. 9. Examine the condition of all instruments and controls in the driver's compartment. Verify the functionality of lights, wipers, interior mirrors, rearview mirrors, door locks, and window cranks. 10. Check the free play of the steering wheel, clutch, brake pedal, and the condition of the parking brake. The free travel of the clutch and brake pedals should meet standard specifications. Note that the steering wheel's free rotation should not exceed 30 degrees. 11. After starting the engine, listen for any unusual noises or smells and observe whether the instruments are functioning normally. 12. Ensure the truck bed and rear door panels are secure and reliable. Cargo must be properly tied down for stability and safety. For vehicles towing trailers, also inspect the connection devices for cracks, looseness, or deformation, and verify that all auxiliary facilities comply with regulations to ensure the towing device is safe and reliable.

[LaColin]

Before every drive, I spend a few minutes doing a set of checks to ensure safety and reliability. Starting with the tires, I walk around to inspect for any cracks or abnormal wear, then use a pressure gauge to check if the tire pressure is within the recommended range—too high or too low increases the risk of a blowout. Next, I check the lights: turning on the headlights, turn signals, brake lights, and reverse lights to ensure they're all functioning, preventing accidents during night driving. For fluids, I pop the hood, use the dipstick to check if the engine oil level is sufficient and the color is normal, verify the coolant level is within the safe line, and ensure the brake fluid and windshield washer fluid aren’t empty to avoid corrosion or failure to spray when needed. After getting in the car, I test the brake sensitivity by pressing the pedal a few times to listen for any unusual sounds; adjust the side and rearview mirrors for a clear, unobstructed view, and fasten the seatbelt before setting off. This habit, developed over many years, has ensured that minor issues never disrupt my trips.