Chapter 4

Chapter 4: The Pre-Trip Inspection: Your Foundation for Safety

Before you begin any practical test, you must prove the vehicle is roadworthy. This is done via a systematic pre-trip inspection. You must physically point to each item and state what you are checking for.

4.1 The Exterior Inspection (Anti-Clockwise Walk-around)

You will start at the front passenger door and walk around the car in an anti-clockwise direction. You must state the check before you physically touch or point to the item.

Sequence Item Statement (Must be Memorized)
1 Front Passenger Tyre “I am checking the tyre for correct inflation, sufficient tread depth, and no visible damage.”
2 Headlights & Indicators “I am checking that the lights and indicators are secure, clean, and not cracked.”
3 Under the Bonnet “I will now check the fluid levels.” (Open bonnet). “I am checking the Brake Fluid, Engine Oil, Power Steering Fluid, Washer Fluid, and Water/Coolant levels are between the minimum and maximum marks.”
4 Windscreen & Wipers “The windscreen is secure and not cracked. The wiper blades are not perished.”
5 Driver’s Side Tyre “Checking tyre for inflation, tread depth, and damage.”
6 Driver’s Mirror & Door “The mirror is secure and clean. The door is secure.”
7 Fuel Cap “The fuel cap is secure.”
8 Driver’s Rear Tyre “Checking tyre for inflation, tread depth, and damage.”
9 Rear Lights “Checking lights are secure, clean, and not cracked.”
10 Rear Windscreen “Rear windscreen is secure and not cracked.”
11 Passenger Rear Tyre “Checking tyre for inflation, tread depth, and damage.”
12 Passenger Mirror & Door “Mirror is secure/clean. Door is secure.”
Pre-Trip Inspection Anti-Clockwise Route
Figure 4.1: The Exterior Inspection Route

4.2 The Interior Inspection (The “Cockpit Drill”)

  1. Doors: Ensure all doors are closed.
  2. Parking Brake: “The parking brake is engaged.”
  3. Gear Lever: “The gear lever is in neutral.”
  4. Seat & Steering: Adjust for comfort. “My seat and steering are adjusted.”
  5. Mirrors: “My mirrors are adjusted.”
  6. Seatbelt: “My seatbelt is fastened.”
  7. Engine Start: Start the engine.
  8. Final Check: “I am checking for any warning lights on the dashboard and checking for any loose objects under the pedals.”