Vehicle Safety Check Basics

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Questions and Answers

What should you observe when checking the brakes before starting a journey?

They should not feel spongy and the car should not pull to one side. (correct)

The brake lights should illuminate when pressed.

They should feel soft and sponge-like.

There should be no unusual noises when applying the brakes.

Where can you find the recommended tyre pressures for your vehicle?

In the car manufacturer’s guide/manual. (correct)

By consulting a mechanic before every trip.

Using a mobile app designed for vehicle maintenance.

On a sticker inside the fuel cap.

How should the head restraint be adjusted for maximum safety?

The centre part should be at least as high as the eye or top of the ears. (correct)

It should always be removed before driving.

The bottom of the restraint should be aligned with the neck.

It should rest gently on the back of the head.

What is the legal minimum tread depth for tyres?

1.6mm across the central ¾ of the breadth of the tyre. Signup and view all the answers

Which method would you use to check if the headlights and tail lights are functioning?

Turn on the lights switch and walk around the vehicle to check. Signup and view all the answers

What indicates a potential problem with the anti-lock braking system?

A warning light illuminates on the dashboard. Signup and view all the answers

What could signify that checks are needed for the direction indicators?

The dashboard indicator light doesn’t illuminate or blinks rapidly. Signup and view all the answers

When checking tyre condition, what should be avoided?

Relying on visual inspection without any tools. Signup and view all the answers

What method should be used to check if all indicators are working correctly?

Activate the hazard warning lights and visually check from outside. Signup and view all the answers

How can you check the brake lights without physically examining them?

Ask someone to help or use reflections. Signup and view all the answers

What indicates a problem with power-assisted steering?

The steering wheel becomes heavy while driving. Signup and view all the answers

When should the rear fog lights be turned on?

During low visibility conditions such as fog. Signup and view all the answers

How can you tell if the main beam headlights are functioning?

The blue main beam warning light is illuminated. Signup and view all the answers

What procedure is correct for checking engine oil levels?

Wipe the dipstick clean, reinsert, and check the levels. Signup and view all the answers

Which action should be taken if the oil level is found to be low?

Top up with oil, ensuring not to over-fill. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do to check the power-assisted steering before starting a journey?

Press the steering wheel slightly while starting the engine for an indication. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

'Tell Me' Questions

Brakes: Before starting a journey, press the brake pedal. They should feel firm and the car should not pull to one side.
Tyre Pressure: Tyre pressure information can be found in the car manual. Use a reliable pressure gauge to check pressures when the tyres are cold. Don't forget to check the spare tyre and replace the valve caps.
Head Restraints: Adjust the head restraint so the centre of the head restraint is at least as high as your eyes or the top of your ears. Ensure the restraint is also as close to the back of your head as comfortable. Some restraints are not adjustable.
Tyre Tread Depth & Condition: A safe tyre should not have cuts or bulges on it. The tread depth must be at least 1.6mm across the centre three quarters of the tyre and around the entire outer circumference. It can be measured using a tread depth gauge.
Lights: Turn the lights switch on, and if necessary, turn on the ignition. Walk around the car to check all lights are functioning correctly.
Anti-Lock Braking System: A warning light on the dashboard illuminates when there's a fault with the anti-lock braking system.
Direction Indicators: Activate the hazard warning lights and walk around the car to check that all indicators are working.
Brake Lights: Operate the brake pedal and check that the brake lights work by using reflections from windows or doors or ask someone to help.
Power-Assisted Steering: The steering will become heavy if the power assisted steering has a fault.
- When starting the engine, apply gentle pressure on the steering wheel. This should cause a slight movement as the system engages.
- Turn the steering wheel right after moving off. The steering should be very easy to turn if the power-assisted steering is working correctly.
Rear Fog Lights: Use the switch to turn on the rear fog lights. (You may need to turn on the dipped headlights and ignition.) Check the warning light is illuminated. Rear fog lights should only be used in fog and low visibility conditions.
Headlight Beam Selection: Use the light switch to select the main beam (may require the engine to be running). Check that the blue main beam warning light is on.
Engine Oil Level: Identify the dipstick. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, and fully insert it back into the engine. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level against the minimum and maximum markings. If the oil level is low, top it up, but be careful not to overfill.

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Description

This quiz covers essential vehicle safety checks before starting a journey. You will learn about brakes, tyre pressure, head restraints, tyre tread depth, and lights. Understanding these aspects is crucial for safe driving and vehicle maintenance.