Vehicle Controls, Roadworthiness and Basic Maintenance
Knowing the controls
You must be able to use the steering wheel, clutch, brake, accelerator, gear lever, handbrake, indicators, lights, wipers and horn without looking down. The handbrake is a parking brake, not a service brake. Before moving off, run a cockpit drill: seat, mirrors, seatbelt, doors, gear, handbrake, and a final look around.
Daily and weekly checks
- Tyres: correct pressure when cold, visible tread, no cuts, bulges or exposed cords. A common inspection benchmark is 1.6 mm across the central tread.
- Brakes: firm pedal, no pulling, no grinding; check fluid level.
- Lights: headlights, brake lights, indicators, hazards and number-plate lamp.
- Fluids: engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, screen wash; watch for leaks.
- Visibility: wipers, washers, demister, clean mirrors and glass.
- Safety items: seatbelts, horn, first-aid kit, warning triangle, spare wheel and jack.
A vehicle used commercially also needs a fitness certificate. Loads must be secure and must not obstruct lights, mirrors or the view.
Worked example
The brake pedal feels spongy and sinks slowly when held at a junction. That suggests air or a leak in the hydraulic system. The correct action is not to drive; have it inspected. A handbrake will not reliably stop a moving car in an emergency.
Traps
Checking tyre pressure after a long drive when tyres are hot; ignoring a red warning light; driving with a cracked windscreen in the driver's line of sight; overloading; treating the handbrake as a substitute for a foot brake.