SWINDON & DISTRICT GROUP OF ADVANCED MOTORISTS

Roadworthiness Check - Feature Article provided by Les Brown

Visual examination of the exterior for damage or defects.

Tool and jack are present and in working order.

Wheel in good order and nuts secure

(do not over-tighten, especially with alloy wheels)

Tyres – check all the tyres, including the spare for: -

Damage
Tread depth
Pressure (pressure settings are only accurate when tyres are cold)
Compatibility of types.

Adequate fuel, oil, water, windscreen wash and other fluids.

Drive belts in good order and correctly tightened.

Lights – including high intensity foglights, indicators, reversing and brakelights – in working order.

Windscreen wipers and washers in good condition.

Horn working correctly.

Fire extinguisher present and "in date".

All glass clean – windows inside and out, lenses and mirrors.

A useful aid to remembering the key points to check is: -

P O W E R

Petrol Oil Water Electric’s Rubber (tyres and wipers)

Moving brake test

Make sure that the brake system is working efficiently under running conditions. Test the footbrake as soon as possible after moving off. You only need to do this test once if you are in the same vehicle all day, provided you have no reason to suspect the performance of the brakes. Always consider the safety and convenience of other road users before you do a moving brake test.

At about 15 / 20 mph lightly holding the steering wheel in both hands, when safe to do so, firmly apply the footbrake. The brakes should pull you up in a straight line with no pull to either side. (Remember to warn your passengers before applying the brakes.)