Many states require vehicle safety checks on an annual basis. However, even in states where this is not required, it is a good idea that you perform a regular safety check of your vehicle on a regular basis. By doing so, this helps to ensure that you are driving a safe vehicle on the road, which minimizes the risk of being involved in an accident. There are many vehicle issues that can be detected by simply listening for odd noises, visually inspecting your vehicle, etc. Here are three things that you should regularly check on your vehicle.
1. Tires
A visual inspection of your tires is not enough. In many cases, your tires will look a tad flat since this will allow your tires to get increased contact with the road. Plus, there are some tires that appear inflated even though they need air. Therefore, it is important that you break out your tire gauge to check the psi in your tires. If you are uncertain how much psi your tires should hold, check your owner's manual or the sticker inside the door jamb of your vehicle. Also, if you are driving a newer vehicle, keep an eye out for the tire pressure warning light on your dashboard, which will alert you when a tire is running low on air.
2. Lights
Regardless of how new your vehicle is, your lights should be checked on a periodic basis because they can burn out or become faulty. You can do this with a friend or family member or alone if you are in a garage or near a wall. With a friend, simply have them walk around your vehicle while you operate all of your lights (brakes, turn signals, headlights, reverse lights, etc.). By yourself, aim your lights at a wall or even another parked vehicle and you will be able to see your own lights reflected if they are working properly.
3. Windshield Wipers
Over time, windshield wipers wear down and will not function properly, which is when they begin smearing. Switch on your windshield wipers. Do they work? If so, then you are one step in the right direction. Next, you will want to squirt some of your washer fluid onto your windshield and make sure that the windshield wipers are able to clear the glass properly without creating a smudged mess. You need to be able to see clearly as you are driving at all times. However, if your windshield wipers have aged too much, seeing clearly will be a problem.
If you notice any issues as you are inspecting your vehicle, make sure to have them repaired immediately. Also, it is important to have a professional conduct a vehicle safety check at least annually to ensure that your vehicle is up to par.
