If you love your car, vehicle inspections should not be an uncommon occurrence. You’ve probably seen a mechanic or insurance representative check your vehicle after an accident. But why should you wait for an accident to find out what needs fixing? The best way to the get the best car insurance for your car and your wallet is to know your car better than your insurer. We’ve compiled a vehicle inspection checklist, so you can ensure (and insure) your car is ready for the open road.
Daily Vehicle Inspection Checklist
Tyres:
When walking over to your car in the morning, be sure to glance over at your tyres and check that they are not deflated. While you’re at it, check that your valve caps are in place. Be on the lookout for objects like nails or pieces of wire sticking out of your tyres and check for any serious damage to the tyre walls.
Number plates:
That mysterious rattling noise could simply be signifying something as harmless as a loose number plate. That said, you don’t want to lose that loose number plate. Apart from the high cost of replacing the plate, you also run the risk of catching a nasty fine for it.
Lights and indicators:
Do you see any cracks or other apparent damage to your lights and indicator lenses? Rather have these repaired or replaced sooner than later.
Bodywork:
Damage to your car’s bodywork can include a loose bumper, side mirrors or window beading. You don’t want any of these things falling off during your drive and cause more damage in the process, costing you a lot more in the long run.
Windscreen and windows:
When you’re in your car, take a minute to look for any damage to your windscreen or other windows. Keep in mind that small chips in the glass never stay small for long. Temperature changes and other factors can cause that chip to crack further and become a safety issue over time.
Interior:
Before you hit the road, check for any obstruction around the foot well area, before checking the pressure of the clutch and brake pedals. Check that all gauges are in working order and look out for any warning lights that come on when you turn the key in the ignition.
Once A Week
Windscreen wipers:
No matter what season we’re in, you’re going to want your windscreen wipers to be working as they should. Better to have them when you don’t need them than have them fail on you when you need them most. The same can be said for your car’s water reservoir. There’s a tree full of birds waiting for you to park under them.
Lights and indicators:
Every once in a while (or once in a week), it’s a good idea to have someone stand outside your car, while you check to see if your front and rear lights still do their thing. Press down on your brake pedal to test out the brake lights and put your car into reverse to ensure those work too. At best, a broken indicator or light can earn you fine. At worst, it could cause an accident.
Monthly Vehicle Checks
Tyres and wheels:
Tyre care is a key part of owning any vehicle. After all, your tyres are on the frontline of every workday commute and holiday road trip – you want to make these things last as much as possible. Regular tyre checks and budgeting for potential tyre replacements is a good way to keep your car in roadworthy shape.
Fluid levels:
Checking your car’s oil, water and brake fluid levels on a regular basis also ensures the longevity of your engine, and keeping you safe. Attendants at most petrol stations can check these for you as you fill up your tank. However, it’s also good to know how to do this for yourself because – let’s face it – no one cares like you do.
Wash your car:
A big part of taking pride in your wheels is hands-on measures like washing your car. Apart from the terrific sense of achievement, you’re more likely to pick up on dents and scratches in the bodywork by doing the job yourself.