Before starting any journey, whether it’s a quick drive to the shop or a longer trip across town, it’s important to do a quick check of your vehicle. Even after completing your driving lessons in manchester uk, many drivers overlook these basic steps that can make a big difference in safety and performance.
This pre-drive checklist helps you stay prepared, prevent breakdowns, and ensure you're following good driving habits from the very start.
Check Your Mirrors and Seat Position
Your seat and mirrors must be adjusted for comfort and visibility. Incorrect positioning can cause discomfort and reduce reaction time.
What to do:
Adjust the seat so your feet reach the pedals comfortably
Set the backrest upright for good posture
Adjust all mirrors for clear views without needing to move your head too much
Inspect Lights and Indicators
All lights on your car must be working properly, especially if you’re driving in early mornings, late evenings, or poor weather.
What to do:
Turn on headlights, brake lights, and indicators
Walk around the car to make sure everything lights up
Replace bulbs immediately if anything isn’t working
Check Tyre Pressure and Condition
Tyres affect grip, handling, and fuel efficiency. Driving with underinflated or damaged tyres is unsafe and can lead to fines.
What to do:
Look for cuts, bulges, or uneven wear
Use a pressure gauge or check the dashboard for tyre pressure warnings
Inflate tyres according to the car’s manual
Test Your Brakes
Brakes should feel firm and responsive. Any delay or spongy feeling could be a warning sign.
What to do:
Before setting off, press the brake pedal to ensure it feels right
Listen for unusual noises when braking
During driving lessons in manchester uk, instructors often stress the importance of brake checks—continue this habit even after passing
Confirm Fuel Level
It sounds simple, but many people still run out of fuel unexpectedly. Starting a journey with low fuel can cause stress and delays.
What to do:
Check the fuel gauge before starting
Plan stops for long trips
Avoid waiting until the warning light comes on
Clean Windscreen and Check Wipers
Visibility is crucial for safe driving. Dirty or smeared windows make it harder to see, especially when sunlight or headlights reflect off them.
What to do:
Clean your windscreen inside and out
Check that wipers are in good condition
Top up the screen wash if it’s low
Test Horn and Emergency Controls
Your horn, hazard lights, and emergency brake are there to keep you and others safe in urgent situations.
What to do:
Test the horn for a quick beep
Check hazard lights come on properly
Know where all emergency controls are located before you drive
Check Dashboard Warning Lights
When you start the engine, your dashboard will show a few lights that should disappear after a few seconds. If any stay on, something may be wrong.
What to do:
Learn what each warning light means
Never ignore lights for engine, brakes, or oil
If unsure, get advice before driving
Adjust Climate Controls
Getting your car’s internal temperature right helps prevent drowsiness and keeps windows from fogging up.
What to do:
Adjust heaters or air conditioning before setting off
Make sure windows are fully defogged
Use the rear defroster for the back window
Final Thoughts
Even after completing your driving lessons in manchester uk, your responsibility as a safe driver doesn’t stop. Taking just two or three minutes to go through this simple checklist can help prevent accidents, breakdowns, and unnecessary stress.
A safe journey always starts before the engine is turned on—check your car, stay alert, and drive with confidence every time you hit the road.
Enroll in Driving Schools Manchester and master the road with professional ADI-approved instructors at Impulse Driving School.
