The purpose of conducting your daily inspection is to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive on the public roads and that it is currently legal.

Vehicle defects only account for about 5% of all collisions. A good driver will eliminate this risk and will far as possible rectify any potential defects so as to reduce the chance of being involved in a collision.

 

External Damage Defects:-

Conduct a visual examination of exterior for damage and defects. Will any new damage have an adverse effect on your vehicle? If you are unsure seek expert advice.


Tyres:-

  • check tyre pressures when cold.

  • check tread depth and tyre conditions. (Including your spare wheel)

  • Wheels:- check condition of wheels, rims & see wheel nuts are tight.

    • Look for any cuts, serious scuffs or bulges to the tyre sidewalls (inner & outer) in the sidewalls. Tread, must have at least 1.6mm over ¾’s of the centre of the available tread width.

    Be aware of “skinny wheels” they will have a lower speed rating than your usual tyres and will have an adverse effect on the vehicles characteristics

    Some high performance tyres they are constructed so that they rotate in a single direction, care MUST be taken to ensure that if changing wheels that they rotate in the correct direction.

     

    Fluids:-

    • visual check of brake fluid level.

    • power steering oil

    • engine oil level.

    • engine coolant level

    • windscreen washer reservoir. (remember some vehicle have a separate reservoir for the rear wash)

    Always carry spare fluids, e.g.

    • water

    • oil

    • brake fluid

    • hydraulic fluid

    • screen wash

    • anti-freeze if in winter

    • petrol

     

    Fan Belts, etc:-
    Visual check of fan belt, power steering pump belt. Remember to check with the engine switched off. Look for chaffing of belts & signs or wear or slipping.

     

    Electrics:-

    Check operation of all electrical equipment...

    • Lights, all round side lights, dipped beam and main & headlight flash

    • Indicators & hazard lights

    • Brake lights

    • Horn

    • Reversing light(s)

    Always carry spare lights, e.g.

    • Bulb packs

    • Fuses

     

    Seatbelts:-

    check for wear and free running.
    Always check all seat belts at least once a week just in case you may carry more people than usual.

     

    As the driver or rider of a vehicle You are responsible for ensuring that;-

    • Your vehicle is roadworthy, well maintained and legal.
    • Ensure that your lights are maintained and kept clean.
    • Keep all window and windscreen clear of obstructions and clean.

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    © North East Thames Rospa Advanced Drivers and Riders