SELF-INSPECTION OF VEHICLE

Before embarking on any journey, responsible drivers should ensure that their vehicles are in proper working condition. Self-inspection involves a thorough check of different aspects of the motor vehicle to ensure its safety and reliability for the journey. Conducting self-inspections before and after trips helps identify maintenance or repair needs. This unit is divided into two parts: exterior inspection and interior inspection. Additionally, it covers common anomalies that can occur during long-distance travel.

Exterior Inspection

This is the inspection performed by the driver before starting the journey. Various vehicle components should be examined before driving off. These components include:

1. Tyres Safety Check

• Perform a visual inspection of the tyres before and after each journey.
• Remove small stones wedged in the tread to prevent future issues.
• Check the condition of tyre treads and replace aging tyres.
• Ensure that tyres are securely fastened.
• Verify tyre pressure and recognize the dangers of both underinflated and overinflated tyres.
• Have a spare tyre in good condition.

2. Reflectors and Lights

• Ensure that headlights, turn signals, and hazard lights are operational.
• Ask for assistance in checking reverse lights, as this can only be done when the vehicle is in reverse.

3. Mirrors

• Confirm that all mirrors are present, properly adjusted, and unobstructed.

4. Windshield Wipers

• Ensure that windshield wipers work at all settings.
• Have wiper fluid available.

5. Windows

• Check all windows to ensure they can open and close without difficulty.
• Verify that roll-up handles are functional.

6. The Body

• Inspect the exterior body for any damage, such as dents and scratches.

7. Cleanliness

• Keep the vehicle clean, with clean windshields, windows, and mirrors for better visibility.
• Maintain a clean and clutter-free interior for reduced distraction while driving and passenger comfort.

8. Safety Belts and Car Seats

• Inspect safety belts to ensure they are functional, with working clasps and clean.
• For child safety seats or booster seats, ensure they are in good condition and properly secured when in use.

9. Emergency Equipment

• Ensure that emergency equipment, including reflector triangles, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, tools, spare tyre, and survival gear, is in good working order.

10. Paperwork

• Ensure you have the appropriate driver’s license to operate the vehicle.
• Confirm that the vehicle is roadworthy with valid registration and insurance.

Interior Inspection

This inspection focuses on the vehicle’s mechanical condition. Key areas to inspect include:

1. Brakes

• Verify that the brakes are properly adjusted by testing them during engine operation.

2. Steering

• Ensure the steering wheel has a full range of motion (360 degrees) and effectively turns the front wheels.

3. Indicators

• Inspect all indicators to ensure they are operational.

4. Gears

• Confirm that the vehicle can shift into all gears smoothly.

These self-inspections are crucial for ensuring the safety, reliability, and roadworthiness of the vehicle before and after each journey.