Vehicle Checklist For Back To School

School resumption is upon us once again and drivers are reminded to make sure their vehicles are children safe and road ready. Here is a five point checklist you must follow:

1.) Check Lights And Wipers For Visibility:

With rainy season not yet over, make sure lights and wipers function properly so that you can see and be seen.  Check the exterior and interior lights and replace any that are dimming, rapidly blinking or not functioning. Check wiper blades for signs of wear and replace if necessary.

2.) Get An Annual Brake Inspection:

The braking system is your car’s most important safety feature. Before school kicks off in full swing, make sure that your brakes are functioning properly. Schedule a brake inspection and look for warning signs that your vehicle may need brake services, such as an illuminated brake light or screeching, grinding or clicking noises when applying the brakes.

3.) Check Tyres For Under Inflation Or Excessive Wear:

Check tyre pressure and refill underinflated tyres, including the spare, and look for uneven wear and check tread depth. An easy way to do the latter is by placing a stick-down in the tread groove. If the tread does not cover up to 9 milimetres, it’s time to replace your tyres.

4.) Make Sure Everyone Is Buckled Up:

This is a must do by the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC). Check to see if the seat belts are still working, if not, don’t hesitate to get it fixed. For the younger ones riding along, make sure they are properly secured to the rear seats. Use child safety lock feature in the car.

5.) Consider Installing A Back Up Detection Device (Rearview Camera):

Some vehicles come with this feature pre-installed from the factory but if yours don’t have it, it’s recommended you install one. This provides rearview video or warning sounds when moving in reverse especially in blind spots. While drivers should not rely solely on side mirrors or rear mirror, it can help to reduce the risk of running over a child you may not have seen while on reverse. You can order for a Rearview Camera HERE 

Back-to-school time is hectic for most families, but scheduling a complete vehicle inspection is time well spent. Knowing your vehicle was checked by a professional technician will give you peace of mind and make all those trips to school and activities safer and less stressful.

About Nonso Okafor

I've worked as a technical support representative in major auto centers in Nigeria for more than twenty years. I have dealt with a variety of problems in my capacity as a customer service representative and auto diagnostics expert. I'm committed to assisting people in properly maintaining their automobiles and in appreciating this magnificent innovation known as an automobile.

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