At The Wiser Driver Driving School, we know that defensive driving starts before you even turn the key.
Regular vehicle checks are a cornerstone of safe driving practices. You should check which of the following weekly defensive driving habits you’ve incorporated into your routine.
This guide will walk you through essential checks to perform on your vehicle’s exterior, under the hood, and inside the cabin to keep you safe on the road.
What’s Outside Your Car?
At The Wiser Driver Driving School, we emphasize the importance of external vehicle checks as a key part of defensive driving. These checks prevent accidents and save you from costly repairs.
Tire Talk
Start with your tires. Many tires are rated by the U.S. Government on treadwear, traction performance and temperature resistance. Check your tire pressure weekly with a reliable gauge. You’ll find the correct pressure listed on the driver’s side door jamb. While you’re at it, examine the tread depth. Try the penny test – if you see the top of Lincoln’s head when you insert a penny into the tread groove, it’s time for new tires.
Light It Up
Next, inspect all your lights. Turn on your headlights, taillights, and turn signals. Walk around your vehicle to ensure they all function. Don’t forget to check your brake lights (have someone watch as you press the brake pedal).
Clear View Ahead
A clear windshield is essential for safe driving. Inspect your windshield for cracks or chips. Even small damage can compromise the structural integrity of your windshield and impair your vision. Check your wipers too. If they leave streaks or make noise, replace them.
Body Check
Finally, take a quick walk around your vehicle. Look for any new dents, scratches, or loose parts. Pay special attention to your side mirrors and ensure they’re properly adjusted. In 1995, the Society of Automobile Engineers published a paper showing a method for setting mirrors that substantially reduces blindzones.
These weekly checks significantly enhance your safety on the road. Prevention always trumps cure when it comes to road safety. Now, let’s move under the hood to explore what internal checks you should perform to keep your vehicle in top shape.
What’s Under Your Hood?
At The Wiser Driver Driving School, we stress the importance of regular under-the-hood inspections. These checks maintain your vehicle’s performance and safety. Let’s explore the key areas you should focus on during your weekly inspections.
Fluid Levels: Your Engine’s Lifeblood
Check your engine oil and coolant levels. The oil dipstick should show the level between the minimum and maximum marks. If it’s low or appears dirty, schedule an oil change. For coolant, fill the reservoir to the appropriate level when the engine is cool. The NHTSA recommends checking out a vehicle safety and travel checklist before going on vacation to ensure your family road trip is safe and enjoyable.
Battery Health: Power When You Need It
Inspect your battery for signs of corrosion on the terminals. Clean any buildup with a mixture of baking soda and water. Tighten the connections. A study by Battery Council International found similar results to other studies, but it’s worth noting that their study only included newer cars, excluding service-prone vehicles more than 6 years old.
Belts and Hoses: The Silent Workhorses
Examine your belts and hoses for cracks, fraying, or signs of wear. A failing belt can cause engine overheating or loss of power steering. The Car Care Council reports that 20% of vehicles inspected during Car Care Month events had belt problems.
Brake Fluid: Safety First
Check your brake fluid reservoir. The level should sit between the minimum and maximum marks. Low fluid could indicate worn brake pads or a leak in the system. The National Safety Council states that proper brake maintenance reduces your stopping distance by up to 30 feet at highway speeds.
These weekly checks take proactive steps to prevent breakdowns and ensure your vehicle’s reliability. Early detection of issues saves you from costly repairs (and potential accidents). Now, let’s move inside your vehicle to examine the interior safety features that play a key role in defensive driving.
It’s important to note that when checking coolant levels, you should wait at least 30 minutes after driving to allow the engine to cool down. This precaution helps prevent potential injuries from hot coolant or steam.
What’s Inside Your Car?
Seatbelt Safety
Start your interior checks with seatbelts. Pull each belt out fully and let it retract. Listen for unusual sounds and look for fraying or damage. For light-truck occupants, seat belts reduce the risk of fatal injury by 60% and moderate-to-critical injury by 65%.
Mirror Adjustments
Proper mirror adjustment minimizes blind spots. For side mirrors, place your head against the window and adjust until you barely see your car’s side. For the passenger side, move to the car’s center and adjust similarly. This method (recommended by the National Safety Council) enhances your field of vision.
Dashboard Warnings
Monitor your dashboard warning lights. If any remain lit after starting your car, schedule a professional check-up. A CarMD survey revealed that check engine light-related issues are rare on brand new vehicles, with the average repair cost for such issues being $322.
Pedal Responsiveness
Test your brake and gas pedals. Your brake pedal should feel firm and not sink to the floor when pressed. If you notice sponginess or excessive travel, inspect your brake system. The gas pedal should respond smoothly without sticking or feeling loose.
Climate Control
Check your car’s heating and cooling systems. Proper temperature control keeps you comfortable and alert while driving. Try all fan speeds and temperature settings to ensure they work correctly. (A well-functioning climate control system can prevent driver fatigue, especially on long trips.)
Final Thoughts
Regular vehicle checks form the foundation of defensive driving. You should check which of the following weekly defensive driving habits you’ve adopted to enhance your road readiness. These simple inspections take just a few minutes each week but can make a significant difference in your driving experience and safety.
Early problem detection through these checks can prevent major breakdowns and potential accidents. This approach not only keeps you safer but also extends the life of your vehicle and saves you money in the long run. We at The Wiser Driver Driving School encourage all drivers to develop proactive maintenance habits.
Defensive driving starts with ensuring your vehicle is in top condition. For more tips on becoming a safer, more confident driver, check out our comprehensive driving programs. We offer a range of courses designed to enhance your skills and keep you safe behind the wheel (no matter your experience level).
